How music education can help youth unlock their full potential

A valuable resource for any country, today’s youth who will be tomorrow’s leaders have the energy, skill-sets, new creative ideas, learning, and teaching capacities to bring about a remarkable transformation to the world. They have the potential to take up leadership roles in both workplaces and communities. Nurturing the young in the right way and equipping them with the appropriate skill-sets not only contributes to their personal growth but has a positive impact on society as well. One key skill set that can contribute to the process of unlocking their potential is music.

It is important to ensure music is valued and celebrated from the early school-going years. Children should be encouraged to learn to sing, play an instrument, and create music as part of the team activity. However, not all children will look at music in the same way. Some will want to study only till they graduate from school and others will want to pursue learning an instrument or singing even after they leave school.

Music education helps in developing skills that go beyond the limits of the music industry, making them well-rounded, sought-after professional talent. It also enhances employability among youth as the same skills can be transferable to other areas of their life. Let’s explore the impact and contribution of music and how it can equip young adults with valuable tools for succeeding in today’s competitive world.

Enhances self-confidence and self-worth

The several frustrations and life’s failures individuals experience can take a toll on their self-esteem. During such times music can act as a very effective antidote to address all the resentment one feels. Learning music and performing provides an enlightening experience that increases one’s self-confidence. With proficiency in music, the feeling of self-worth and a sense of achievement surfaces, and the learners begin to value themselves dearly. The confidence, resilience, and zeal can be seen in other aspects of their lives too.

Values of discipline and time management are instilled

For learning music and regularly practicing, discipline and effective management of time are required. Learners who are consistent begin to see positive transformation with hard work and dedication. Dedicated practice time and the patience required to work through the challenges of acquiring new techniques further improve the discipline and time management skills of learners which help them in other walks of life as well. These qualities also contribute to a strong work ethic, character-building, and the development of the much-required social skills while participating in group performance.

Boosts emotional intelligence and compassion

Difficult times are part of one’s life and all individuals have to go through them at some time or the other. Several studies suggest that music can stimulate the body’s feel-good chemicals such as oxytocin and help individuals to cope with challenging situations. With music, learners can explore and express how they feel constructively. Performances can provide opportunities for emotional releases that can help them address any feeling of stress or anxiety. Emotional well-being can drive compassion and one becomes more understanding and sensitive towards fellow human beings.

Enables self-expression and provides a creative outlet

Music provides an outlet for youth to express their emotions, thoughts, and experiences. It allows them to channel their feelings into lyrics, and melodies. By engaging in musical activities, young individuals can explore their inner selves, find their unique voices, and develop a sense of identity. Music becomes a platform where they can communicate and connect with others who resonate with similar experiences, fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance.

Aids in promoting peace and tolerance

Music being the universal language of mankind transcends continents and cultures. Learners become aware of the different cultures from around the world. They can leverage music to bring people from various cultures together and promote better understanding, unity, peace, and harmony. Irrespective of the language of the song, its melody is appreciated by all and audiences can feel a sense of togetherness.

International music festivals act as platforms for connecting cultures and generations while promoting unity.

Makes learners result-oriented

Music education students also improve their abilities in other non-musical ways as well. Various important skills such as problem-solving, reasoning, and creative and critical thinking are enhanced. Music training makes one committed, focused, and result-orientated while perfecting all other technicalities involved. For every music lesson, specific short time goals are to be set with outcomes defined. With this exercise, the forward-thinking and strategic planning abilities of individuals get further sharpened. Learners of music often demonstrate confidence and clarity and can achieve their goals quickly and efficiently. Music skills carry high potential in uncovering the talent and capabilities that are not outwardly visible in young learners. Several hidden abilities of individuals are unlocked by empowering them with music skills. The music learners’ understanding of art and the world, in general, is significantly enhanced as they gear up to achieve success.

(The author is co-founder and CEO of Subramaniam Academy of Performing Arts)