We have all heard that music makes you smarter–well, the study of music does.
Music hath Powers – From today’s Globe and Mail, Pictures & Prophecies:

– “Music education produces myriad benefits, strengthening kids’ abilities in reading, math, and verbal intelligence,” says PSMag.com (formerly MillerMcCune.com).

But it might just also make you more kind and compassionate, too!
“New British research suggests it may also teach something less tangible, but arguably just as important: The ability to empathize. In a year-long program focused on group music-making, eight- to 11-year-old children became markedly more compassionate, according to a just-published study from the University of Cambridge. The finding suggests kids who make music together aren’t just having fun: they’re absorbing a key component of emotional intelligence.”

Even more reason to stick out those piano lessons! And even more reason to get involved in group ensemble lessons as well. It’s definitely one of the reasons I have group lessons for my private students a few times a year.