Did you play a musical instrument when you were growing up? Do you continue to play an instrument today? Neuroscientists continue to find evidence that musical training tremendously benefits a child’s brain development in ways that can improve cognitve function throughout his or her lifespan.
As the father of a 7-year-old, I am gratefulthat my daughter is fortunate enough to have access to musical training and has developed a love of playing both the piano and violin.
Unfortunately, budget cuts have put music and art classes on the back burner for most of our nation’s students. Research from the U.S. Department of Educationfound that 75 percent of U.S. high school students “rarely or never” take extracurricular lessons in music or the arts.