As much as I hate to admit it, my parents were right to keep pushing me to continue my piano and flute lessons. We have all had those hobby's that our parents make us take up as kids that we just do not want to do! For some it was soccer, gymnastics, ballet, or music. For me...it was all of them! I have tried everything from painting to martial arts. And none of them stuck with me except for music. Although piano lessons were a chore when I was 5, I have so much to thank them for now.
1. Music provides an outlet
If you have had a bad day, music is there to let you release your emotions. Music requires your full attention, which means that it is the perfect escape from your everyday responsibilities. Practice rooms are a safe place where the only thing that matters is you and your music. No matter what you play, or what level you play at, there is a therapeutic result that comes from sitting down with your instrument and playing your heart out.
2. It provided me with a family
My mom has always told me "find the band, and you will find good people." That saying has led me to so many friends and mentors over my years in music ensembles. Whether it was in high school jazz band, or my college pep band, I have made friends who recognize just how important music is, but also understand the struggle that goes along with it.
3. It is extremely time consuming, but it pays off
We have all spent the late nights in the practice room working on that one part that troubles you for the whole night. But the countless runs and exercises are worth it when you finally master the piece and get to perform it flawlessly! That is the best feeling in the world.
4. It actually does make us smarter!
According to the American Psychological Association, children who take music lessons are proven to have higher IQ's and scored better in mathematics, spelling and reading tests. So although it may seem like we are just having fun and making friends, music is actually improving our grades.
5. Because, let's be honest...band people really are the best!
Whether it is still in school, or out in the real world, you can always count on finding band people. No matter where you are, the band will stick out in any crowd! And you can count on them no matter if you have known them for a day, or 10 years. That is what makes band and it's members so incredibly special.
