Mastering the art of playing an instrument is a journey that requires commitment, effort, time, and sacrifice. In addition, the journey is not smooth. There are failures, frustrations, and the need to get up again and continue.
However, this is not to say that it is impossible. When you come out on the other side having mastered it, and as you continue playing, there are valuable lessons that you will have picked along the way.
Here are a number of benefits of playing a musical instrument.
#1 It increases creativity
After learning to play an instrument, it almost comes naturally to want to put some words to the rhythm. Playing an instrument will get your creative gears rolling. It becomes easier to put together words that can best express your emotions and compose an original piece. As you find your sound and mix everything in your computer, your creativity comes into play.
Note that you can use free VST plugins to mix different sounds and music samples for your own production on your computer. It can also come in handy when you want to use virtual instruments for your song. Use an audio interface to make the sound perfect.
#2 It is a stress reliever
When you create time to play an instrument, it allows you a break from the hustles of life. You also get to focus on the one that you love, which makes you happy. All these make you forget the difficulties of life, and naturally, alleviate any feelings of stress. In addition, music gives you the chance to vent out difficult emotions you may be harboring. It is a form of therapy to the body and brain that keeps diseases away.
#3 It enhances immunity
Studies have shown playing an instrument and listening to music enhances the production of antibody immunoglobulin-A. This is a killer cell that kills viruses. If you have heard that playing music takes the flu away, it is not a myth.
#4 It allows you to exercise
In this era where life is so fast and we barely have time for some things such as exercising. Playing an instrument while dancing gives you a full-body exercise. Doing so a few days a week consistently can guarantee a fit and healthy body.
#5 You become more confident
Finding the courage to stand in front of a crowd is a daunting task for many people. However, playing an instrument that you have perfectly mastered can give that kick to your confidence and drive any fear away.
#6 Increases memory capacity
Playing music uses both sides of the brain. The result is an increased memory capacity. Ever wondered how you can sing along to a song you learned 20 years ago, one that you rarely get to hear? On the other hand, why do kids learn the alphabet using songs?
#7 You learn people skills
If you are a part of a team, you most likely interact with people with different personalities. Staying focused on the one thing that brought you together requires all of you to have strong people skills. You get to learn about working together for a common mission, which improves your team-building skills. You also learn leadership skills that come in handy in your life.
#8 It teaches you valuable lessons of life skills
It is impossible to learn how to play an instrument overnight. You will be required to practice and practice some more. There is a greater feeling than the one you experience once you have mastered the art.
Besides feeling accomplished, you gain valuable lessons such as how to be patient and persevere. The very fact that you carve time out of your schedule teaches you a lot about time management. In addition, you become disciplined and organized.
#9 Improves brain functionality
Instruments keep revolving as technology advances. With this, there is no limit to the things that you can learn with an instrument. Exposing your brain to something new every now and then is beneficial and increases its functionality.
#10 You become responsible
If you want your instrument to keep serving you at the optimum level, you will be needed to learn how to take care of it. Maintaining an instrument goes a long way in instilling a sense of responsibility in your life.
#11 Improves body functions
A music performance involves your motor skills as well as your hand-eye coordination. You are reading the notes, playing the instrument, and moving the body to the rhythm all at the same time. You also need to keep track of the song and engage the crowd. All these improve the mentioned body functions.
Conclusion
Playing a musical instrument is certainly fun and exciting. It is a gift that you give to yourself and to others. Above all, the invaluable lessons that you pick to go a long way in giving you a happy and fulfilling life.
