The benefits of learning a musical instrument – Quiz

1.  Read the text and answer the questions.

1. According to the article, what do musicians have to show to reach the highest levels of performance?
Musicians have shown dedication and passion to reach the highest levels of performance.

2. According to a study by Dr Nina Kraus, what were children who played music better at recognising?
Children who played musical instruments were better at recognising different frequencies.

3. Students who engaged in music-related activities in grades 7-12 scored higher in which subjects, according to a study?
Students who engaged in music-related activities during grades 7-12 scored significantly higher in science, English and maths.

4. How could learning an instrument improve your social life?
You could end up joining a band or orchestra and meet other bandmates who are likeminded in their love of a good tune.

5. In what ways could learning an instrument give you a sense of achievement?
Learning an instrument can give you a sense of achievement through nailing that perfect chord or getting together with a bunch of friends and entering into a battle of the bands.

2.  Choose the appropriate words or phrases to complete the following sentences.

1. He has shown real dedication to his work.

2. You need to strum the guitar from top to bottom to make that sound.

3. You did well in the test. You really nailed it.

4. We’ve decided to create a group and compete in the next battle of the bands.

5. She shows exceptional  passion towards her music. She loves it! 

The benefits of learning a musical instrument

It’s difficult not to admire the talent of a skilled musician. Whether it be a pianist, flautist or cellist, these individuals have shown dedication and passion over a long period of time to reach the highest levels of performance. But they say it’s never too late to learn. So what are the benefits, for both children and adults, in learning a musical instrument?

Learning to play a musical instrument when growing up can improve hearing in adulthood. According to a study by Dr Nina Kraus, Professor of Neurobiology at Northwestern University in Illinois, US, children who played musical instruments were better at recognising different frequencies. This improved hearing skill carried over into later life with adults who had once played an instrument able to discern sounds of different pitches more easily. And it could also have some academic benefits too. A study conducted by the University of British Columbia found that students who engaged in music-related activities during grades 7-12 scored significantly higher in science, English and maths.

And there are not just benefits to children. Whether you choose to play the piano, pick or strum a guitar or learn a drumbeat, you could end up joining a band or orchestra. This in turn could improve your social life, meeting other bandmates who are likeminded in their love of a good tune. Learning an instrument can also give you a sense of achievement. Nailing that perfect chord is one way, but what if you got together with a bunch of friends and entered into a battle of the bands – and won?

So, whether you’re looking to destress playing out some chords, or improve your grades at school, maybe taking up an instrument could help you.