Wednesday 17 November 2010

How Musical Instruments Help Children Understand Math

By Adriana Noton

There is a strong relationship between math and music. This might be hard to believe because the two seem so different. It is even more astounding to think that musical instruments could have a positive effect on a child's ability to do math. What does the one have to do with the other? The fact is that playing an instrument requires mental and physical skills and music is actually based on mathematical principles.

Some children find math difficult. This can lead to frustration which complicates matters further. Most children however, love music and find it relaxing and enjoyable. The two subjects are strongly related. Pitch and rhythm, the basis of music, can be described by using math concepts.

Music teaches children to count beats which helps them grasp the concept of whole numbers. Music notation teaches them to identify shapes and the relationships between them. They learn how to measure when they analyze pace and pitch.

Numerous research studies have been conducted to highlight the relationship between music education and brain development. These studies provide compelling evidence that music significantly increases a child's cognitive ability. One study found that children who played instruments achieved significantly higher math test scores than children who had no music education.

Music helps children learn and memorize. Our brains function best when information is clustered or chunked together and music is naturally like that. There is a reason that teachers developed songs, like the ABC song, to help children learn faster.

Music is not only beneficial for developing math skills. Children who take music lessons also see a significant improvement in their speech, reading and writing abilities. The first person to notice the connection between math and music was Pythagoras, the well-known philosopher. He showed that math is the defining element in all music.

Does it matter what instrument the child plays? Children who take music lessons, regardless of their choice of instrument, all benefit from the development of vital skills. Music lessons are emotionally rewarding. They also help to develop the child's self-esteem as well as encourage discipline and self-expression.

Some children have no clue what instrument they should take up. There are so many instruments to choose from that it can be confusing. Parents should always be weary of forcing a child to do something they do not want to do. Forcing a child to play a specific instrument will have negative results and usually leads to them abandoning their music lessons. Parents should however, encourage a child that displays an interest in a particular instrument. This is a good sign that they will be devoted and committed to pursuing their music studies.

Musical instruments can be expensive and some parents choose to rent before making an outright purchase. This is a good option especially if the child is unsure of which instrument to take up. - 42265

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