Now, you might think that these articles are self-serving — that (no pun intended) we are tooting our own horn because, after all, we are a music school.

Well, let us tell you that what you read about in our blogs is based on facts (real, not alternative), and solid science is behind everything we write.

So with this in mind, let’s look at five reasons why music lessons make you healthier.

Let’s Count the Ways…

Actually, there are many ways in which music benefits your physical and mental health; these are just top five:

1. Stress reduction. It’s a well-known fact that extreme or chronic stress and anxiety can lead to serious conditions like heart disease or strokes. Playing an instrument, however, helps release “feel-good” hormones like endorphins and serotonin, which, in turn, have a calming effect on our nervous system.
2. Better immunity. Music boosts our immune system so our body is able to fight off various viruses and germs that attack our bodies and make us sick.
3. Improved sleep. A good night’s sleep is essential for health. If you have trouble falling asleep or are awake at night, music will help you sleep better.
4. Pain relief. That’s right, there’s evidence to suggest music can reduce your perception of pain and the need for meds.
5. Quicker recovery. If you’ve been ill, music can speed up the healing process.

But Wait, There is More…

Music lessons can also improve motor skills, coordination, and even muscle tone — think of all the strength you need to hold an instrument or blow into it!

And did you know that music is beneficial at any age? According to an article in LiveScience, “Musical activity throughout life may serve as a challenging cognitive exercise, making your brain fitter and more capable of accommodating the challenges of aging.”

There is even more good news: it doesn’t matter which instrument you or your child are learning to play — they are all equally good in providing health benefits.

So our advice (one that your doctor will surely approve of) is this: Eat balanced meals, exercise, and take music lessons!

Photo: Students Playing Music Together

The post Five Reasons Why Music Lessons are Great Health-Boosters appeared first on Hey Joe Guitar.

If this comes as news to you, let us reiterate what we (and scientists) have said many times before: playing music helps develop or improve a variety of skills, ranging from social and academic to emotional and psychological.

Now, the question you may be asking yourself is: “What is the best instrument for my child?”

Before we answer, let us say that our recommendations below are subjective, in a sense that what’s great for one child may not be the best choice for another.

These are general guidelines, based on our own experience, as well as that of music teachers and child development experts.

Okay, having said that, the answer depends on factors such as the child’s age, the length and agility of fingers and legs, fine motor skills, and whether he or she is able to cope with the mechanics of the instrument.

So that leaves us with smaller, more manageable instruments.

Give Me Five (Instruments, that is!)

For kids eight years of age and older, the five instruments that are easiest to learn and handle:

1. The guitar comes in a variety of sizes and styles to suit any student’s need
2. The violin. It also comes in child-appropriate sizes
3. The flute is one of the easiest instruments to learn, easy to transport, and fun to play
4. The recorder —just like it’s cousin the flute, it’s wonderful for small hands
5. The piano is one of the most versatile instruments for all ages

All of these instruments are more compatible with a child’s body; they are easy to learn and (except for the piano) to carry.

The bottom line is this: let your kids play what they want to play. There is no such thing as a “bad” instrument!

But whatever the age and instruments, remember that in order for the lessons to be truly beneficial, children need an excellent teacher to guide and mentor them on their musical journey.

Photo: Girl Playing the Recorder Courtesy of Max Pixel

The post The Five Best Instruments to Boost Your Child’s Brain appeared first on Hey Joe Guitar.

Here is one question you probably don’t ask yourself very often (if at all): are you a drum, piano or violin? Or perhaps you are a flute or ukulele? The reason we are urging you to ask (and answer) this question is simple: if you (or your child) are thinking about taking up music lessons but are not sure which instrument to learn, it is a good idea to reflect upon which one would fit your personality best.

This is not an exact science so please don’t sue us if you happen to end up with an instrument that you or your teacher consider unsuitable – though please keep in mind that there is no such thing as a “bad” musical instrument; it may not fit your personality but it is a good match for others.

Satisfy your personality

There are several criteria for choosing an instrument: the age and size of the player are first and foremost. An instrument that “grows” with your child – such as the guitar, violin, flute or recorder are good choices. Also to be taken into consideration are the player’s physical capabilities: does she or he have flexibility, agility, and coordination to correctly hold and handle the instrument? But what about matching instruments based on personality? Generally speaking – though of course there are many exceptions to these “rules” – someone who is quiet and laid back might be a good fit with a bass, because it is considered to be a “background” instrument. If, on the other hand, you are outgoing, bold, and even brash, then a solo instrument like the trumpet might be your cup of tea. And if you are a high-energy person who can’t sit still, the drum is an obvious choice. Now, if you don’t fit into any clear-cut and defined category – in other words, if your personality has many facets – you might want to opt for instruments that produce a multitude of tones and characteristics, like the piano, guitar, or saxophone. Still not sure what instrument has your name on it? This quiz may help. One thing we are sure of: no matter who you are, there is that special instrument out there for you, just waiting to fall into your arms!

So happy together!

When you and an instrument of your choice are matched together and living happily ever after, that’s when our teacher comes in – literally – to your Manhattan, Brooklyn, or Riverdale home or office. It doesn’t matter whether you and your instrument are hyper or introverted – we will make sure that, when you play, your true colors are shining through!

Photo by unknown, available under Creative Commons License

The post With New York Music Lessons, You and Your Instrument are a Good Fit appeared first on Hey Joe Guitar.