Around four years ago, I started a hobby that will last a lifetime—playing an instrument. On Christmas Day, I woke up to my parents giving me a keyboard (electric piano). I was ecstatic; I had been wanting a piano for a year and I finally got one. Since then, I have been taking classes and practicing for four years, and it has been the greatest investment in my life. I want everyone to experience this because I know that playing an instrument is one of the greatest pastimes for a multitude of reasons.
First, you get to train your brain. When you play an instrument, every part of the brain is activated. You have to focus on correctly reading your sheet music; listening for auditory cues, making sure you’re in tune; memorizing how a song is played, even forcing your hands to remember the patterns; controlling your arms and fingers, preventing them from freezing; and using high-level decision-making, knowing when to pivot or emphasize as needed.” Learning the instrument is a hard feat; however, the outcome is all worthwhile.
As a result, research supports musicians having higher-than-average intelligence quotient (IQ). One study states, “New research has claimed that learning to play a musical instrument increases intelligence by 10 percent,” (Sian Moore 2021). Now, it is important to note the difference between causation and correlation. Many other factors can determine these studies, but you should still be mindful of the fact that musicians do tend to have higher IQs than those who do not play instruments.
Moreover, when you finally learn a piece or a song, you feel a sense of accomplishment. You go from failing, looping the same five seconds in a song, only to fail time and time again, to easily playing the full song with your eyes closed—learning resilience in the process. In addition, after you have mastered a song, you have the opportunity to show it to others. It might take additional effort and hard work, but the feeling of sharing your talent with other individuals cannot be beaten.
Furthermore, when you use an instrument frequently, it becomes a hobby. Hobbies can improve mental health and can distract oneself from stress factors in life. A study in New Zealand shows that “engaging in creative activities can lead to an improved sense of wellbeing that may have long lasting effects” (Emma Parkhurst 2021). This pastime, however, is not like any other; it has an additional benefit. Playing an instrument trains critical thinking, and not just once in a while. If the hobby is developed, the mind is bound to strengthen from regular training.
For me, playing the piano has made me proud of myself. I have learned a new skill that will hopefully stay with me for my life to better it. I have the privilege of being able to play any song I want when I am bored. From the perks of showing off to improving mental health, I want you to have the opportunity to have this experience.
Leonardo Lopez Resendiz – Latin School of Chicago – DMSF Class of 2029
Photo Credit: PickPik