The Research
Giving piano lessons to preschoolers significantly increases their ability to perform the types of reasoning required for excellence in science and math. (Research from the University of California and the University of Wisconsin)
Music lessons in childhood actually enlarge the brain. Researchers at the University of Munster in Germany found that “the younger the musicians were when they started musical training, the bigger this area of the brain appears to be.”
Music lessons appear to strengthen the links between brain neurons and build new neural bridges needed for good spatial reasoning. The study done, compared 19 preschoolers who took lessons and 14 classmates who weren’t enrolled in a music program. After eight months there was a 46% boost in spatial IQ’s for the young musicians and a 6% boost for the children not taught music. (USA Today)
Increased intelligence is one of the by-products of a child playing a musical instrument. This is based on the fact that approximately 80-90% of the brain’s motor-control capabilities are devoted to the hands, mouth, and throat. By developing highly refined control in those areas, a child is stimulating almost the entire brain, thereby increasing its total capabilities. (Research by Wendell Harrison)
ABCs of KMP
- A parent is a child's best partner. Music is about relationship.
- Believe that a non-pressured atmosphere allows parent and child to learn in a relaxed, social environment.
- Correct names for all musical terms can be taught in a creative way.
- Do "homeplay" not "homework."
- Every child should be given the opportunity to learn music. We focus on the process, not the product.
- Fun, social interaction in class provides relationship in a society that has become increasingly isolated with technology and gadgets. We have an instant audience when we play solos. Our treats and rewards increase confidence and discipline.
- Give the gift of music. It increases brain function and builds pathways between the right and left sides of the brain, which enhances the learning of ALL subjects.
The Benefits
Most parents don’t realize how much more their children will get from piano lessons that just learning to play the piano. Surveys by educators, government, and the music industry show that students develop social and academic strengths as their piano training progresses. They’ve also found that those who study music show more leadership skills, poise, vigor and self-confidence that those who don’t. Through the study of music, a child gains more self-esteem and more control over the intellectual, emotional and physical aspects of life. These traits remain with the child for life. (from “THE HIDDEN BENEFITS OF PIANO PLAYING”)
Music participants received more academic honors and awards than non-music students. (from the National Education Longitudinal Study)
Students with coursework or experience in music performance score an overall average of 88 points higher on the SAT than students with no course work. (research done by the College Examination Board)