Childhood music training offers valuable opportunities for children to develop critical learning skills that will benefit them as they face the challenges of their academic life in school. The concepts learned in music studies have both mathematic and linguistic elements to them. Children who are exposed to this disciplined learning at an early age often find the transition to the structure of the school classroom a more natural one.
Learning music theory is a labor-intensive endeavor, and to be able to fluently perform a piece of music requires a tremendous amount of hard work and disciplined practice. A successful performance, where the piece is well-executed, with no flubbed notes or obvious fluctuations in tempo is a rewarding achievement for a child; one that helps him realize that concentrated effort is required to achieve such excellence.
Children learning to play music soon come to realize the importance and value of teamwork. In an ensemble or orchestra setting, every musician has to do her part in order for the musical interaction to be harmonious. Further, experience in ensemble playing soon makes apparent the difference between simply playing your own part independently, and playing as part of a group. A group of individuals playing in sync with each other is a musical experience that is difficult to explain, but inspiring to experience.
Performing music for an audience can make even seasoned performers a little nervous, so a youngster playing at a recital is bound to feel a little anxious. Such anxiety is a normal and expected part of everyone's life, but many adults allow it to become a paralyzing fear that prevents them for reaching their true artistic potential. Having a child conquer this at a young age can do wonders for his confidence and self-esteem in all walks of life, making it less problematic as he enters adulthood.
Most people react to music on an emotional level. It can make people feel carefree and happy; sometimes it makes people reflective and melancholy. People listen to music for relaxation, for creative stimulation and sometimes we simply dance to it. Children are no different, and being intimately involved in music at an early age, whether by singing or playing an instrument, can instill in a child a deeper understanding and appreciation of musical composition that can enhance his enjoyment of music for the rest of his life.