10 Life-Long Benefits of Learning Piano by Ms. Rekha Cardoza
Has the soundtrack of a movie, or the music on the radio “caught your ear”? Have you
considered why you are “drawn” to a tune? Descriptive phrases like these, suggest that music
has the ability to touch our hearts and minds. When we hear music that appeals to us, it becomes
a part of us; our long-term memory. It is a naturally enjoyable experience, and we know this
when we hum or sing along to a tune, find ourselves tapping our feet to the musical pulse or beat,
or even swaying and/or dancing along to the rhythm.
Pianos and digital music keyboards are widely available, and wonderful instruments for anyone
regardless of students who are beginners, or those returning to learn the instrument to improve
their skills. Students from preschool age to seniors, can learn to perform on these instruments for
their own enjoyment, as well as to entertain others with music and song.
Advantages to learning piano and music keyboards
1. Equitable use of hands: This is a wonderful and unique aspect of piano and music
keyboard instruments. Student learn to use both hands to play different notes
simultaneously, in a complementary manner to produce a harmonious sound.
2. Comfortable posture: Students are seated comfortably while performing on the
instruments. They are able to read the music in a natural seated posture, without having to
strain any part of their body to do so. Also, the keys do not hurt fingers. They are smooth
to the touch and can be played with minimal effort.
3. Wide Range of ‘Voices’: These instruments, have a wide range of musical frequencies
that are comfortable to our ears. Pianos have unique and warm percussive sound
qualities, and digital keyboards have the prerecorded sounds of a variety of instruments.
The range of these instruments allows students to perform a wide variety of music.
4. Improved focus and memory: The independent and thoughtful use of both hands while
performing the instrument enhances students’ senses of perception due to activation of
both hemispheres of the brain. Additionally, students are able to learn quicker due to
improved hand-eye coordination which is a great benefit to all students regardless of age.
5. Promotes responsible behaviors: Learning an instrument involves the commitment to
prepare for lessons as well as to follow-up. Students learn quickly that they need to
practice to progress. Patience and discipline are also developed in the learning process.
6. Increases self-confidence: Students get excited when they accomplish a new piece and
enjoy performing for an audience. They feel encouraged when their efforts are
appreciated and validated by others.
7. Benefits at school: My students tell me that piano lessons make it easy for them to
follow music instruction in school. Also, the music theory that they learn during private
lessons, help them to read and learn new sheet music when they join the school band or
orchestra in middle school.
8. Brings joy: It feels wonderful and relaxing to entertain oneself on these
instruments or to try out popular and enjoyable tunes. It literally melts away stress!
9. Creativity: Students are able to be creative as they learn. They get to play their favorite
songs and to sing along. Many students enjoy figuring out their own ways of performing
or interpreting music, and they may even be inspired to create and compose
their own tunes!
10. Versatility:
Music keyboard instruments complement the sound of the singing voice, and students can learn to accompany themselves easily as an added skill.
Can be used to accompany solo/group singers.
Widely used to compose on, and to write music parts for other instruments. Many of the world’s music composers, use keyboards to create and produce music for the entertainment industry including for large-scale musical performances such as orchestras and instrumental group performances, for musicals, plays, films and a variety of other productions involving music.
Used to teach choral groups (including male and female voices) to sing their individual parts, so that they can ultimately blend in chorus.
Two and even up to three performers can perform on a full-length piano at the same time.
Considerations and Suggestions
A good time to consider lessons, is when you and your children are enjoying music, and especially
when they are asking to learn the instrument. Piano lessons help students to perform using the
right techniques. You will be helping yourself or your child to express creatively, and to have a
healthy hobby other than screen/video games. Pop music, songs from animated movies, even
music from video games, are very popular with generation Z, and students are always excited to
perform pieces that interest them.
Digital pianos are available online at various price points based on the features they offer.
However, do check with a professional first, before purchasing an instrument. Some digital
keyboards are toys, and would not be suitable for lessons.
Private piano lessons are offered at Samspra Academy as early as age 4. The
parent-child lesson for preschoolers, is a wonderful opportunity for parents to learn a new skill
while having fun with their kids.
Lessons are also available to students ages 6 and above, from beginner to
intermediate levels (Grades 1-4).
Additional information can be found at https://www.samspra.org/offerings by clicking on
Piano (under Enrichment Classes, Offerings: Music).