Music education is pivotal to student success

The relationship between humans and music is fascinating. We love music — it moves us both emotionally and physically. Studies have shown that when we listen to music, our brains release dopamine, which in turn makes us happy. One such study published in Nature Neuroscience found that dopamine release is strongest when a piece of music reaches an emotional peak, and the listener feels “chills,” — the spine-tingling sensation of excitement and awe.

Our bodies typically release dopamine during behavior that’s essential to survival (like eating), encouraging us to do more of those behaviors. However, music is not essential to our survival in the same way, therefore adding to the mystery of our unwavering love for it. But what’s even more interesting is the impact music has on young, developing minds.

March is Music in Our Schools Month, observed annually to shine a light on music education, its importance and the many benefits it brings to kids of all ages. As chief rock officer of the Rock Academy of the Performing Arts (RAPA), the Delta Academy’s music conservatory, I am no stranger to the positive impact that music has on youth. I witness it every day with my high school students.

A study published this year by the USC Brain and Creativity Institute found that children who learn to play a musical instrument have enhanced cognitive function. Music education contributes to improved creativity and confidence, better mental health, emotional stability and student performance, according to a paper published in 2022 by the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. That’s why RAPA students have the opportunity to focus on contemporary musical performance and theory for everything from vocals and guitar to bass and drums in the musical genre of their choice, in addition to rigorous academics.

When music and traditional education are combined, students are more engaged and do better overall — I’ve seen it firsthand in my years as an educator.

The impact of music education on adolescents extends beyond a surge in neural connections and actually boosts well-being, according to the study published by USC. The pandemic has taken a well-known toll on the mental health of students, and more resources and support are needed now during this period of healing. Is music education the answer? Mounting evidence suggests it may be a major piece of the puzzle.

Beatriz Ilari, a USC Thornton associate professor of music education and corresponding author of the USC study, believes music might be an activity that helps students develop skills and competencies, work out their emotions, engage in identity work and strengthen connections to the school and community.

It’s safe to say that music is powerful. It stimulates the brain in ways that improve function, academic performance and mental health. Because of its ability to catapult a young adult’s learning to new heights, music education is pivotal to the overall education process. It helps pave the way to a successful future for students.