For my first free inquiry post, I wanted to reflect on why I believe music is so valuable, in all stages of life. Children mainly benefit from music for the benefits of it allowing to use our brains in a different way, which increases memory, and learning capabilities. Music also relieves stress, releases dopamine, trains cognitive and motor coordination skills, as many different parts of the brain must work together.
During my elementary years, my parents made me take music lessons each year, which, at the time, was often frustrating for me. But, as Iāve grown older, Iām so grateful that I still carry the ability to turn to music when I feel the need to express myself, or simply focus on something beyond daily tasks.
Helping in a kindergarten class this year has also reminded me just how important and engaging music can be. I noticed that the children loved singing together, as they were able to collaborate in a new way, while simultaneously developing memory and language skills. Attending their music class was very nostalgic for me, reminding me of when my favourite part of the day was sitting quietly in front of the piano, and listening to my kindergarten teacher play for us. I remember being so fascinated and relaxed watching her, and Iāve always wanted to incorporate playing music for my future students ever since.
Whatās so special about music to me is how it can translate to anyone. Any age group, ethnicity, or gender, no matter what, we can all be moved and inspired by music. I feel so lucky that my parents have always been music lovers, and found it important to incorporate it into my sisterās and my life. My parents grew up going to concerts together, playing soft songs throughout the house in the mornings, my mother picking piano back up as an adult, and my dad mesmorized by concert videos on the tv when heās had a little too much to drink.
Just last week my dad mentioned to me, āWhen Iām an old man, I want to be able to strum a guitar.ā This stuck with me because it made me sad to hear that he has felt like he hasnāt had time to do things for himself, like learn a new hobby, due to work. A few days later I encouraged him to start going to lessons, and that conversation reinforced why I have the urge to revisit my own musical skills.
Yes, the brainās stress levels are directly impacted by music, but I also believe just making the time for yourself to do something creative and just for the sake of having fun, is so beneficial for mental health. As I get older, through all stages of life, I aspire to keep the things I love close to me, and continue to foster a sense of creation within myself.
Throughout this term, I will take time at least once a week, to relearn how to read sheet music and play piano. I will reflect on what learning strategies worked and didnāt work for me as a child, try new strategies, and asses changes in my learning capabilities. In doing so, I hope to better understand why creating a universal design for learning is so important as future educator.
See you next week as I will begin to learn my first song of the term!