Swami Mahadevananda of the Bharat Sevashram Sangha has emphasised the importance of learning music from an early age, citing its multifaceted benefits.
In the spiritual realm, music can serve as a powerful catalyst for awakening, helping individuals connect with their inner selves, explore their beliefs, and find deeper meaning in life. Furthermore, numerous studies have shown that learning an instrument, including vocal training, significantly contributes to physical, emotional, and intellectual development.
Dr Pradeep Das, president of the IMA Serampore branch, added that the neuroscience of learning music reveals how the brain processes and experiences musical input. Research shows that musical training enhances cognitive abilities, including language acquisition, memory, and concentration. Playing an instrument, in particular, actively engages a network of brain regions, leading to both structural and functional changes in the brain.
Music training has also been linked to improved memory recall and enhanced focus—skills that are crucial for academic achievement. Studies indicate a strong correlation between music education and better academic performance, including higher scores on standardised tests and increased graduation rates.