Music learning in India is all the more relevant now with the introduction of NEP 2020 and the importance the government has given in it to music learning. I recently came across an interesting paper titled “NATIONAL EDUCATION POLICY 2020 AND THE SIGNIFICANCE OF MUSIC EDUCATION” by Vandana Sharma. Below is a summary of the benefits of learning music extracted from this paper for the modern busy parents’ quick reference.

1. Enhanced Academic Performance: Music learning has been associated with improved academic achievement. Children who engage with music tend to perform better in subjects like mathematics and language arts.
   
   
2. Cognitive Development: Engaging with music stimulates various regions of the brain, particularly those associated with spatial-temporal processing. This is crucial for tasks like mathematics and problem-solving.
   
   
3. Improved Verbal and Mathematical Skills: Scholars with a background in music tend to score higher on standardized tests, showcasing enhanced verbal and mathematical abilities.
   
   
4. Discipline and Focus: Learning music requires consistent practice and attention to detail. This instils discipline and helps children develop the ability to focus on tasks for extended periods.
   
   
5. Teamwork and Collaboration: Participating in ensembles, such as choirs or orchestras, encourages teamwork and effective collaboration. This reduces the likelihood of resorting to negative behaviors.
   
   
6. Enhanced Communication Skills: Music is a language of its own. Learning to read and understand musical notation fosters a unique form of communication.
   
   
7. Emotional Expression and Well-being: Music provides an outlet for children to express their emotions, whether it's joy, sadness, or introspection. It has a profound impact on emotional well-being.
   
   
8. Boosted Creativity: Music allows for self-expression in ways that words alone cannot accomplish. It serves as a medium for children to project their passions and emotions, nurturing creativity.
   
   
9. Therapeutic Benefits: Music has soothing and healing power. It can relax tense muscles, alleviate mental fatigue, and serve as a form of therapy for children.
   
   
10. Cultural Understanding and Appreciation: Through music, children can explore and appreciate different cultures, fostering a sense of global awareness and understanding.
    
    
11. Early Cognitive Development: Even in infancy, children respond rhythmically to music, indicating an innate connection. Music plays a role in cognitive development, even before language acquisition begins.
    
    
12. Positive Influence on Learning Skills: Music education facilitates textbook recall, acting as a powerful mnemonic device. It aids in memory retention and overall learning skills.
    
    
13. Balance and Focus in Meditation: For children engaged in meditation, music can be a powerful tool. Certain rhythms and melodies help achieve a sense of balance and focus.
    
    
14. Long-lasting Impact on Well-rounded Development: Music education nurtures well-rounded individuals, equipping them with skills that prove invaluable in various aspects of life.

Having been a music educator for over a decade, I have had the privilege of watching students learn music and the astounding benefits that it offers. I believe that there’s an urgency to educate today’s parents in helping them understand the benefits of learning music, how music learning should no longer be treated as an optional activity, the way to approach music learning for their children, the importance of sticking in and continuing music learning for a substantial amount of time rather than just for weeks or months. I look forward to writing blogs on these topics in the coming days to do our bit in propagating music education.

Kaushik Lahoti
Founder, KaushikDhwanee