Latest Posts  •  August 8, 2016

In times where real connections are oftentimes replaced by social media and ‘online friendships’, and homework keeps children locked to their desks, they often lack the time (and ability) to form deep friendships.

Modern Music School can provide children with an opportunity to connect with like-minded kids by letting them play in a band and grow together.

With band lessons children have the opportunity to connect with their peers altruistically by developing empathy for each other’s unique learning styles and toward each other’s feelings. By earning the respect of their peers and developing genuine friendships by learning together, Modern Music School students learn more than just music – they learn the tools they need to form genuine friendship.

And let’s face it, there just isn’t a lot of glamour in playing by yourself. The greatest amount of fun comes from playing with others.

Being among friends makes learning a lot more fun, and whenever learning becomes fun, it becomes easy!

Our experience shows that students who play in a band naturally want to learn as much as they can, including technical skills and music theory, because they want to keep up with their peers and contribute to the rich sound their band produces. This camaraderie helps students make progress faster than they would in one-on-one lessons.

Here is a list of 7 added benefits band lessons have to offer:

Motivation: People – and children in particular – are highly motivated and inspired by each other. Because they are learning to play songs together with their bandmates, they feel accountable to them, and work hard to make sure they have their parts learned each week for the group! They’re also motivated to practice more. Even those having a tough time practicing when alone will feel this encouragement. This mutual influence is also known as group-dynamics.

Creativity: In a group, students have the opportunity to develop new ideas and share them collectively, and they’re provided with a great environment for experimentation. A more extraordinary and unexpected outcome is oftentimes the result.

Team Spirit: Orientation towards the same goal creates team spirit. This solidarity is strengthened by group activities that allow students to support one another during the learning process. Building the team’s morale this way solidifies this sense of group spirit (or again, group-dynamics) also increases motivation.

Overcome Inhibitions: Students get used to playing in front of each other each week and become comfortable with the notion of an audience and a public setting. They develop confidence and overcome stage fright.

Healthy Competition: Group lessons expose students to a mildly competitive atmosphere, this encourages them to learn and practice in order to keep up with their peers. The group dynamic provides students with the opportunity to give as well as take constructive criticism.

Social Development: Deep friendships are formed in our band program as students learn how to better relate and cooperate with others. The development of communication skills (both social and musical) is also fostered.

Self Confidence: Above all, each of the added benefits mentioned in this post builds confidence that will last a lifetime.

Being part of a band is yet another way to develop ones love and passion for music – and showing off on stage is the next logical step!