Is Making Music Good For You?

One of the questions I frequently pose to students, both individually and in workshop settings, is: Why do you play?

I like this question because it helps people to refocus on what fuels and sustains them as musicians, as opposed to perseverating on their musical challenges.

And I get a fascinating array of answers! Some people play because they love to perceive progress; others because they enjoy specific styles of music; some prioritize the social aspect of making music with others

But one answer I don’t often receive is “because it’s good for me.”

Why not?

I’m not entirely sure, but I suspect it’s because people underestimate extent to which making music, especially in community, can enhance individual health and well being.

Here’s the thing: Music is really, really good for you! Yes, you personally, whether you’re young, old, or somewhere in between. The benefits of making (and learning to make) music last throughout the lifespan, and are particularly acute among older adults.

Yes, I’m biased….but I’m also informed! If you’re a research junkie like me, you can start to dive into the relevant research here and here and here. But I’ll also summarize a few key points, below!

• Actively engaging with music is positively associated with (self-reported) social and emotional well-being; this is consistent across levels of music making (i.e., beginner, amateur, professional).

• There are strong social benefits to making music together.

• Older adults are fully capable of developing and progressing in their musical skills.

• Music learning in all stages of life may offer cognitive benefits.

In short, making music is a pretty terrific thing for you to be doing with your time! Way to go!