Adult Music Lessons: Top 7 Reasons You Won’t Regret It

Written By Danielle Parker

The unsung heroes of Rock 101 are definitely our adult learners. Pressing pause on adulting in order to spend time on yourself is no small feat. Our adult learners constantly inspire us!

If you are considering taking adult one-on-one lessons, the good news is that there are many benefits. Take a look at our Top 5 List for Adult Music Lessons.

1. Thinking Caps On

Several studies show that learning music as an adult affects cognitive development by increasing working memory, focus, and other executive function skills. Adults who take music lessons overall show higher cognitive performance than those who do not take lessons. Adults who play musical instruments are less likely to experience dementia, including Alzheimer’s Disease.

2. Move Those Fingers

Taking music lessons as adults is also correlated with improved coordination and fine motor skills. It has been shown to decrease pain in arthritis patients. Music lessons have also been found to be a useful therapy to regain mobility after a stroke.

3. Smiley Face Emoji

Studies that compare adults who take music lessons to those who do not show playing music reduced cortisol which results in lower stress and anxiety. It has also been shown to increase positive mood while decreasing feelings of isolation. In general, playing musical instruments is linked to feelings of connection and well-being.

4. Gimme a Break

The brain switches between two modes: focus and diffuse. In focus mode, we focus intensely on a task. In diffuse mode, we relax the mind and let the thoughts wander. Both modes need to be balanced in order for us to be effective. Most adults spend too much time in focus mode, resulting in a loss of focus and the feeling that nothing is being accomplished. Playing music overall allows the brain to shift into diffuse mode. This means that when you go back into focus mode, you will be able to accomplish more in less time. Yes, you read that correctly. Taking time out for yourself is actually required if you are going to get more work done.

5. Make Cool Friends

Remember when you were in college and it was so easy to meet new people? Being an adult is hard in more ways than one! Taking music lessons provides a way to meet new people and become part of an awesome, supportive community. Several studies have linked longevity not to physical activity or nutrition alone. Rather, the key ingredient needed is social interaction. So there you go - the perfect reason to embark on some fun one-on-one lessons or perhaps take your social life to the next level by joining the Rock 101 Sip & Strum class.

6. Joy!

To quote Ingrid Fetell Lee, author of Joyful: The Surprising Power of Ordinary Things to Create Extraordinary Happiness: “Joy is what makes life worth living…And yet, for some reason, we have decided that it is superfluous - the icing on the cake rather than an integral part of the cake itself.” Being an adult is hard work! Researchers are shedding light on the importance of finding balance between hard work and joy. Experiencing joy improves mood, improves the immune system, helps to fight pain, and supports longevity. (It’s kind of a big deal.)

7. Smooth Operators

We’ve got some smoooooooth operators here at Rock 101. Bridgette and Brittney will take the stress out of signing up for lessons. Not only that, but they will stick with you for your whole journey, from changing time slots to even changing instruments. Your life is hectic but they’re here to make sure your lessons aren’t. As for the instructors, let’s just say they’re in a league of their own. Not only are they knowledgeable about musical theory and teaching, they are kind-hearted and dedicated to working with you at your skill level. Whether you are returning to lessons with a large skill set or learning an instrument for the first time, they are passionate about bringing the joy of music to each lesson.

Danielle Parker https://www.rock101nm.com/rock-101-blog/searching-for-stories-with-danielle
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