How playing the piano can greatly benefit the life of a child or adult living with ADHD.
By Max Filkins/Family Piano
Waukegan, IL. – There is much to say – and I’ve already said so much! – about the tremendous beneficial effects of learning the piano. But there is one topic that is especially near and dear to me: the magical effects that learning piano (or other instruments) can have for those living with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
I have seen the amazing effects that music has on individuals living with ADHD. This is no coincidence! Although ADHD presents formidable challenges, not as much is said about the positive traits that are associated with it. ADHD is correlated with higher levels of creativity, particularly in the fields of divergent thinking.
This is the ability to think of many related ideas from a central idea, and recent research coming out of the University of Georgia suggests that those living with ADHD have this important creative ability in spades. Individuals with ADHD also test abnormally high in the creative facets of conceptual expansion (thinking of creative ways to use a learned concept) and overcoming knowledge constraints (working around the fact that you might not know all the facts).
Learning music has the effect of fully utilizing the positive traits of ADHD while helping a student-musician cope and overcome negative traits. The personal nature of learning music one-on-one – as opposed to traditional learning in a classroom – allows an individual with ADHD the perfect environment to set their own pace while providing a positive outlet for their heightened levels of creative energy.
At the same time, learning an instrument such as piano trains the areas of the brain associated with focus and short-term memory. In effect, the process of music-making helps build the central areas of the brain in ways that take advantage of the immense creativity associated with ADHD while assisting an individual with the areas that they struggle most in.
Another major benefit of music is in the realm of self-esteem. The frustrations of having your brain function a little differently can impact the confidence one has in themselves. However, music can be a major confidence builder. The creative and energetic nature of individuals with ADHD can help set them up to succeed musically – provided the dedication and passion are present within them. Success on a musical instrument can do wonders for self-worth, which can have a transformative effect on any life.
Looking for affordable music lessons with dedicated teachers who are experienced and receptive to a multitude of learning styles? Family Piano Co is the place to go to. With 30 minute weekly lessons on a wide variety of instruments for ONLY $99 a month, we’re here to make you the best musician you can be! Give us a call at 847-775-1988 or come stop by in person to begin your musical journey today!