It seems to be a common idea that it is harder to learn new things as you age. When it comes to learning to play a musical instrument, this is not always the case. As an older adult, you have heard a lot of music, giving you more reference points when trying to understand a musical concept. You also have decided it is something you want to do and will therefore practice and pay attention in class more than a young child who is being forced to learn it. In addition, there are a few benefits an older person will receive when learning to play an instrument in a group setting that make the entire experience much more enjoyable.
Keeps Your Mind Active
When you take group music lessons, you are encouraging your mind to expand and to learn. Trying and learning new things is an excellent way to improve your memory. The more active your mind, the less you will forget. You will be able to concentrate better too. The effects of aging on the brain are slowed when you go out of your way to learn new things regularly. When you learn in a group setting, there are others there going through the same thing to encourage you if you become frustrated because you can't seem to get something right. Often, your classmates can explain a concept or action in a way you will grasp easier than how the instructor explains it.
Social Activity
If you are one of the many older adults who has become complacent sitting at home alone, or with only a few friends, going to group music lessons offers you new friendships and relationships. You are bound to meet people who would not normally cross your path, giving you more insight into human nature and what is going on with the world. This can be very good for your emotional well-being.
Physical Dexterity
Learning to play any musical instrument takes some type of physical dexterity. As you have aged, you may not be able to move your fingers fast enough to play the lead guitar at first, but by using your hands during your lessons and at practice, you might find movement becomes easier. When you play with a group, you don't always have to be the lead, you can take your time and work up to the other parts while still contributing to the overall sound of the song. This will encourage you to practice more because your part is important too, so you will become even more adept at a faster pace.
Music can be relaxing, invigorating or just plain fun. There is no reason you should not try to learn to play an instrument you have always wished you could play just because you are a bit older now. Even if you just learn to play the rhythm parts of some of your favorite songs, it can do your mind and body good.
Share15 September 2015
Are you planning a party, gathering or celebration in which you will be inviting a mixed group of people? If so, one of the most difficult elements of the planning process is choosing the music that you will play during the event. Since people have such varying tastes in music, it can be hard to find a playlist for a mixed group without offending someone in the crowd. So, how do you do it? This blog will give you several ideas that can help you plan the music playlist using music that won't offend your guests but that will keep everyone entertained.