Playing the piano isn’t exactly a high-impact sport. And sadly we don’t get our cardio workout done for the day after a 30 minute piano practice session. (Although to be honest, sometimes it feels like it!) But playing the piano does have surprising mental health benefits. Here are 4 reasons why playing the piano is good for your brain.
1. Playing the piano sharpens your smarts.
Fact: music makes us smarter. Regular piano practice boosts mental abilities by activating the same part of your brain used in math, spatial reasoning, and language. It can also significantly improve memory as you learn a new piece. And seriously – consistent practice from a young age can physically change the shape of your brain, making it more efficient and better equipped to learn new things.
Playing the piano also activates the part of your brain used for creativity. This is due to the fact that as musicians, we are constantly making creative decisions when we play our instrument. Especially when you are playing jazz or doing some form of improv; then your brain is in complete “create” mode.
Just like exercising a muscle, when we exercise these parts of our brain through playing music, they become stronger and you become smarter.
2. Music improves mental health.
From the words of Steinway: “People who make music experience less anxiety, loneliness, and depression.”
How amazing is this? Music as a consistent, creative outlet lets you express your innermost emotions by providing a great way to release stress and anxiety. It forces you to take a step back, breathe, and think outside of the box for a minute. Playing the piano lifts your spirits and grounds you at the same time, reminding you that music and life are both beautiful (and sometimes messy).
Playing the piano also provides you with a skill you can show off that allows you to connect with other people. Whether that’s other musicians or a hot date, music connects us all. So next time you are feeling lonely, find a way to share your musical skills with someone else!
3. Piano lessons boost self-esteem.
Related to the previous reason, music helps us feel better about ourselves. A 2014 study showed that children who took private piano lessons for three years had higher self-esteem. This is because learning how to play the piano is hard! And when you push yourself to do something hard, you will see results – and your confidence will increase.
4. Learning the piano gives you successful tools you can apply in other areas of your life.
When you play the piano, you are doing a million things at the same time. Between two separate hands playing two separate things, your brain is reading notes, dynamics, rhythms, tempos, and all sorts of other musical symbols. (And let’s not forget that your feet are also
This takes a ton of concentration, focus, determination, and perseverance. Playing the piano is not easy. But putting forth the effort teaches you these skills that you can then apply to other areas of your life.
So what are you waiting for? Go play the piano! Your mental health will be better because of it.
