The benefits of music for young people
February 15, 2023 Well-being Youth intervention and animation
Parents
The positive impact of music on youth is well known. In fact, several studies have shown the influence of music education on learning and academic success, the development of social skills and self-esteem, motivation, perseverance, etc.
Music at the heart of skills development
Thanks to its ability to bring people together, music also promotes cooperation, a very useful skill for teamwork. Music also enhances a young person's self-esteem and self-confidence. In addition, music increases well-being, self-awareness, and time management skills. Learning music therefore contributes concretely to improving the well-being of young people.
The musicosocial approach
Many organizations offer opportunities for young people to learn music. One of these is Jeunes musiciens du monde, a non-profit organization that provides free music education in its five schools in Quebec (Montreal, Quebec City, Sherbrooke, Laval, and Val-d'Or). The professionals at Young Musicians of the World use the musicosocial approach to teaching music.
The musicosocial approach, developed by Jeunes musiciens du monde in partnership with the Centre de transfert pour la réussite éducative du Québec (CTREQ), uses musical learning to foster students' socioemotional development. This approach prioritizes self-determination and focuses on building positive aspirations in young people. In fact, this approach is based on strengthening students' feelings of belonging, competence and autonomy.
Sense of belonging
Youth who develop a sense of belonging are more likely to feel part of a group or community and to feel valued.
They will be proud of their community and feel that they have something to contribute.
Youth also have the opportunity to develop positive interpersonal relationships and learn that there are people they can trust. For example, participating in weekly music classes with other students will help them develop a sense of belonging.
Sense of competence
Developing a sense of competence will enable youth to develop skills or feel capable in various areas of their lives (e.g., relationships, leisure activities, school, etc.).
They will appreciate themselves more generally, recognize their strengths as well as their limitations, and be confident in their ability to achieve their personal goals. For example, learning a piece of music in its entirety will help them develop a sense of accomplishment.
Sense of autonomy
Youth who develop a sense of autonomy are more likely to initiate and be responsible for their own actions. They will feel free to express themselves, make choices, and take initiatives that can impact their lives.
Youth will feel involved in their own development and that they can influence the world in a constructive way. For example, finding music online will help them develop a sense of independence.
What about the music journey?
By developing a sense of belonging, competence, and autonomy through music learning, youth can develop positive aspirations and the motivation they need to persevere and pursue their dreams.
It is important to know that, according to the musicosocial approach at Jeunes musiciens du monde, there is no predefined or standardized musicosocial path. The professionals who implement this approach respect the learning pace of each young person to help them go as far as possible.
What to remember
Learning music is beneficial to young people's development in many ways. In addition to fostering self-esteem and discipline, learning music allows them to better manage their time, be more creative, and work more effectively in teams.
Reference (in French)
Fédération des harmonies et des orchestres symphoniques du Québec, Les bienfaits de l’enseignement et de la pratique de la musique.
