The Benefits of Learning Guitar

I first started playing guitar and writing songs 20 years ago, and the connection I had with music with immediate.  It was a wonderful outlet, something that challenged and excited me.  Years later, I saw the profound effect music had on my kids.  My son, a non-stop fireball of energy, would stop like a deer in headlights when he heard a song or instrument that caught his ear.  He continues to love exploring sounds and the natural dynamics of music.  Witnessing that effect inspired me to become a guitar teacher, but it was only after becoming an occupational therapist that I began to learn the true value of learning an instrument.  Below are a few of my observations on the benefits of learning to play guitar:

Motor development – Learning guitar improves hand strength and fine motor control.  It also develops bilateral integration skill, which is the simultaneous use of both sides of the body in a coordinated way.  While playing guitar, the child is using both hands for different purposes – to strum with one hand and hold the strings with the other.  As this skill is developed, the left and right hemispheres of the brain are better able to communicate with one another and coordinate movements.

Cognitive development – One of the great joys for me as a teacher is working with a student to learn a piece of music.  Doing so requires the ability to sustain attention to the task, recall finger placement, and the ability to process what is on the page.  These are all important components of cognition.

Social-emotional development – With every age group, I incorporate a songwriting component to the lesson.  This activity is more about the process of songwriting than the outcome.  It is an excellent way to share ideas, take chances, and be expressive in a positive setting.  I believe that today’s educational curriculum is so focused on meeting standards, students often miss the chance to participate in these creative exercises.

The academic link – it is easy to make the connection between the skills above and school performance.  Reading music follows the same left-to-right, top-to-bottom pattern as reading text.  Following rhythms involves mathematical concepts such as counting and pattern recognition.  Motor skills are important, even at the kindergarten level, for holding a crayon or pencil efficiently.  Attention, memory and visual processing aid in learning math facts, recalling sight words, and a host of other common school tasks.  Finally, the child with opportunities to express his ideas confidently and work well with others will very likely get the most out of school.

I have been teaching music for close to 5 years.  The experience has been so much fun and extremely rewarding.  My goal is to encourage my students, challenge them, and maybe get a few laughs along the way.