An analysis of research that examines the correlation between the study of music, overall learning success and personal well-being

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between the study of music and a student’s overall learning success and general well-being. After analysis of relevant literature, recommendations were made for teachers and administrators who were seeking validation for the inclusion of the study of music in school curriculum. Parents and individuals could also benefit from the conclusions and recommendations drawn from the study. The research component of this study was two-fold. First, the relationship between the study of music and success in overall learning was researched. This involved a comprehensive review of neuromusical research and psychological studies involving music and learning. Review of the literature on this subject provided concrete, scientific evidence that the study of music can and does enhance the learning of other subjects, particularly mathematics and spatial reasoning. Second, the relationship between the study of music and the physical, mental and emotional well-being of people was researched. Studies on this topic conducted by educators and medical professionals including physicians, psychologists, and psychiatrists were reviewed and analyzed. These studies also revealed a positive relationship between music and health, both physical and mental. The subject of emotional well-being as it relates to music was more difficult to research, perhaps because of the very nature of emotions in our human make-up. The literature review did, however, reveal strong personal biases on the value of music to emotional well-being. Studies by experts in music education certainly supported a strong link between music and emotions. A positive relationship was also observed and recorded by health care professionals such as music therapists and caretakers of the disabled and elderly