“MiMusic Notes” by Karine Pierson, Director of Education MiMusic Studio

Here at MiMusic studio, we like to have all new music students go through a process where we interview them and get to know them, talk about scheduling and billing in detail and just in general make sure we are a good fit for them and vice-versa.  It’s called a complimentary lesson consultation.  Yesterday, a woman responded “no” to her complimentary lesson consultation on the calendar with the following response:

I think I’m just too old 🙁

This response made me incredibly sad for several reasons.  I’m 44 almost 45 years old now, which is probably really old to my students but perhaps young to a lot of my adult learners.  I know I’ve definitely felt like I am “too old” for certain activities.  I don’t exactly hit the late night club scene anymore.  It’s not a great feeling, but I’m also proud of myself for pushing through those feelings when it’s something that could benefit me, such as going to hot yoga and doing a polar bear plunge into the frigid waters of Lake Michigan afterwards, an activity that most of my friends would label as “crazy” (don’t knock it until you try it!) yet leaves me feeling like a million bucks. If I had sat there and talked myself out of it because I’m “too old,” I wouldn’t be enjoying the benefits of doing such extreme physical activity such as feeling great, having more energy, sleeping well, an enhanced immune system as well as deeply connecting to the powerful energy of the Northern environment we live in.

Music has many benefits that are touted in the academic realm but not so much in the conversation with older adults.  There are however a bunch of new studies out there about the benefits of music lessons for older folks.  Here are some research-backed benefits of music lessons for older adults, along with their sources.

Cognitive Benefits

  • Improved Memory and Cognitive Function: Engaging in musical activities can enhance memory and cognitive abilities in older adults. A study found that regular musical leisure activities have long-term cognitive benefits for individuals with mild to moderate dementia. (oxford academic)
  • Enhanced Executive Function: Learning to play an instrument involves complex mental processes, which can improve executive functions such as problem-solving and cognitive flexibility. Research indicates that musical engagement supports cognitive health in aging individuals. (sage journals)
  • Emotional and Psychological Benefits
  • Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Participating in music-making activities has been associated with decreased stress and anxiety levels, contributing to improved emotional well-being. A scoping review highlighted that musical engagement could serve as a therapeutic tool for emotional support in older adults. (sage journals)
  • Increased Happiness and Emotional Resilience: Music triggers the release of dopamine and serotonin, which are neurotransmitters associated with pleasure and mood regulation, thereby enhancing happiness and emotional resilience. Studies have shown that active music-making provides a source of enjoyment and personal development for older adults. (research gate)
  • Stronger Social Connections: Group music activities foster social interaction, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation among older adults. Research indicates that such activities enhance social cohesion and contribute to overall well-being. (research gate)

Physical Benefits

  • Better Coordination and Motor Skills: Playing musical instruments can improve fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, which are essential for daily activities. A study found that learning to play a sound on a musical instrument alters the brain, improving listening and hearing abilities, which are closely linked to motor skills. (practicing musician)
  • •Lower Blood Pressure and Heart Health: Engaging in musical activities has been linked to reduced blood pressure and improved cardiovascular health, contributing to overall physical well-being. A scoping review highlighted that musical engagement could serve as a therapeutic tool for physical rehabilitation in older adults. (sage journals)

Neuroplasticity and Lifelong Learning

  • Supports Neuroplasticity: Learning an instrument engages multiple brain regions, promoting neuroplasticity and potentially delaying age-related cognitive decline. Research suggests that musical activities can induce beneficial neural changes in older adults. (sage journals)
  • Encourages Lifelong Learning: Music provides a structured and enjoyable way to keep the mind active, encouraging continuous learning and skill development throughout life. Studies have shown that active music-making offers opportunities for personal development and empowerment in older adults. (research gate)

These studies underscore the multifaceted benefits of music lessons for older adults, highlighting improvements in cognitive, emotional, social, and physical health.

As a lifelong educator, I think my sense of empathy is well-developed.  Sometimes so much that it is painful!  In this case I was imagining this person who is probably feeling lonely (another epidemic in our country) who is sitting at home and self-sabotaging themselves from receiving all these potential benefits. I’ve definitely been there!  I’m not sure how old this person is but if I’m feeling bad about aging at my age (44) I can’t imagine what that feels like if you throw a couple of decades on there!

At our studio, we encourage music learning at all ages.  Our youngest learner in the studio is 3 years old and our oldest is 88!  We will be having an event for adult learners in the near future, check the website for our events www.mimusic.education