10 Benefits of Music Education for Students:

1. Language Skills - learning a musical instrument improves how the brain understands human language which can help when learning a second language
2. Improved Test Scores - studies have shown that students who are involved in a high quality music program at school perform better on tests
3. Self-esteem - music allows students to try something new and develop confidence as they master the skill
4. Listening Skills - music involves listening to yourself and others, this helps auditory development
5. Math Skills - reading music involves learning quarter, half, and whole notes, which are essentially fractions
6. Makes the brain work harder - research shows that the brain of a musician works differently than non-muscians 
7. Relieving Stress - listening to a favorite song or artist can lift a mood and relax us
8. Creativity - music definitely nurtures creativity - employers have identified creativity as one of the top 5 skills important for success
9. Helping Special Needs Children - can have a powerful impact on students with special needs - helps them find a way to communicate and open up
10. Higher Graduation Rates - statistics show that schools with music programs have higher graduation rates