According to the Children's Music Workshop music advocacy program, music education at a young age "helps develop brain areas involved in language and reasoning." Musical training helps develop the left side of the brain, which is the side of the brain used in processing language.
Learning to play a musical instrument helps develop a child's ability to work with others. A music group, whether a choir, orchestra, or even a small band, must work well together to make a song sound good. When a child learns a musical part he must play with others to create something, which helps reinforce teamwork skills.
Learning to read music and to play an instrument requires self discipline. Without frequent study and practice, a child will not become proficient on his chosen instrument. Regular involvement in a music program teaches children how to schedule regular practice and strengthens self-discipline skills.
Learning to sightread music while playing an instrument increases coordination skills. The repetitive physical aspect of playing an instrument helps enhance muscle strength and coordination and can assist in developing fine motor skills.