Learning an Instrument After Graduation Improves Ability

Man playing an electric guitar. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Preparing for a career is a lifelong goal. Some have known since as far back as they can remember what they want to be. For others, it’s a process. Regardless of what your individual path was to getting there, upon college graduation there is a pretty clear-cut picture of what you want your future to be. Chances are music has provided a source of inspiration on the way.

It has been noted that music is good for the soul. This is easy for most to understand. We listen to it in our homes, our cars, our jobs, and the gym. Pretty much anywhere you go, you will find music. The right song can change your mood, followed by the wrong song; your mood is back to where it started. The soul however, is not the only area music reaches. Those who are trained in music have a leg up academically and professionally.

Learning how to play an instrument increases your cognitive ability. An increase in memory is one of the main areas in which the brain seems to be affected by those who play an instrument. Studies have shown that being involved in music causes a larger growth in neural activity than those who do not have music training. This is not limited to children who learn at a very young age. It has been shown that it can even slow down the process of dementia or Alzheimer’s in the elderly.

Studying music also has been shown to increase spatial intelligence. Those who have taken music lessons for an extended amount of time have an increase in the ability to recognize things that should go together, thus creatively solving problems that those without training may struggle with.

Taking music lessons has also been shown to help students and adults of all ages persevere. Learning a skill such as the guitar or piano requires a lot of hard work, dedication and patience. Those who strive for a goal, surpassing obstacles and in the end creating a beautiful piece of art see the benefits to sticking with something as well as the natural benefits that music brings to their lives.

Music has also been known to help individuals work better in a team setting. Often is the case that it takes more than one distinct sound to create a musical masterpiece. Even the simplest compositions require multiple sounds. Learning how to work together for a common goal is something that will continue through the rest of your life. Employers will look highly on someone who took part in a band or orchestra as they will know that teamwork is well within their realms.

Don’t worry if you did not learn music at a young age, this doesn’t mean that your college goals are out of sight. Nor does it mean that you will be unable to fit into the corporate world after graduation. There are many other factors that come into play when we are talking about success. However, if there are areas you feel you may be struggling in, music may be the answer. There is no time like the present, take some in-studio guitar lessons.

With graduation coming very soon, it is important that you find that perfect career. It is also imperative that you are able to balance an adult life. This includes time to grow professionally, personally, and mentally. Music can help you get there, with or without lessons. But in order to reap all of the benefits music has to offer, it is not a bad idea to give it a shot. That my friend, is a two for one; aiding you professionally, as well as personally.