Exercising the Brain: Cognitive Benefits of Playing an Instrument

Learning how to play a musical instrument provides numerous cognitive benefits. The mental exercise required for learning and playing an instrument stimulates the brain in profound ways, fostering the development of neural connections and enhancing cognitive functions.

Raphael Wald, Psy.D., a neuropsychologist with Marcus Neuroscience Institute at Boca Raton Regional Hospital, part of Baptist Health, explains: “If a person, for example, is playing a guitar, we're making connections between actions that our fingers do and sounds that creates all kinds of connections in the brain.”

This intricate interaction between physical actions and auditory perception can result in the creation of new neural pathways or the reinforcement of existing ones, making musical practice an invaluable tool for cognitive health.

The process of learning to play an instrument is a complex activity that engages multiple areas of the brain simultaneously. For instance, playing an instrument involves hand-eye coordination, motor control, auditory processing, and even emotional expression. These multifaceted skills promote neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form and reorganize synaptic connections, particularly in response to learning or experience.

“It can create new connections,” Dr. Wald said, who shared his insights on a recent Instagram reel. “This person is playing an instrument for the first time, or it can re-establish or strengthen connections that already exist.”

This capacity for change is critical for cognitive function, particularly as individuals age. In essence, learning and practicing an instrument serves as both a mental workout and a way to maintain or enhance brain function.

Even Trying to Play an Instrument is Healthy

Dr. Wald also highlights the value of playing an instrument over an extended period of time, even for those who may not possess significant skill. “If a person has been playing that instrument for many, many years -- even if you're not very good at it; even if music doesn't sound very good -- just the act and the process of trying is really, really good for your brain,” he asserts.

Research consistently supports the notion that challenging the brain through creative activities, such as music, can have wide-ranging cognitive benefits. Numerous studies have shown that learning an instrument can improve memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities.

One study found that musicians exhibited greater brain volume in areas associated with memory and auditory processing, compared to non-musicians. This suggests that the act of playing an instrument can physically alter the brain in ways that enhance cognitive abilities.

Additionally, the mental discipline required for learning and playing music can improve executive functions, which include skills such as planning, reasoning, and self-control. Musicians have been shown to perform better in tasks that require these cognitive abilities, as the brain is constantly engaged in problem-solving while learning new pieces of music or refining technical skills.

Exercising the Brain

Ideally, exercising the brain is part of a healthy lifestyle that includes regular aerobic exercise. ”Exercise – aerobic exercise, specifically – is very important for cognitive health as it keeps our heart and blood vessels healthy,” said Dr. Wald. “The healthier they are, the better they stay at nurturing the brain with the oxygen and nutrition it needs to thrive.”

Even figuring out puzzles or other word games – or reading books with intricate plotlines – can be essential parts of a healthy lifestyle, he adds. “People will go to the gym and work out so they can have stronger biceps or triceps or whatever muscle it is. The brain very much works the same way.”

The process of playing a musical instrument also has significant emotional and psychological benefits. Music can be a source of emotional expression and regulation, allowing individuals to channel their feelings and create a sense of emotional release. This emotional engagement further enhances the brain’s cognitive abilities, as emotional and cognitive processing are closely linked.

Moreover, learning to play an instrument can foster a sense of accomplishment and self-esteem, which in turn promotes overall mental well-being.

The cognitive benefits of learning an instrument extend far beyond childhood, and there is no age limit for reaping the rewards of musical practice. Whether someone is starting at a young age or picking up an instrument later in life, the brain can continue to benefit from the mental stimulation provided by musical activities.

“I really do encourage that for anybody who has ever thought about it,” Dr. Wald recommends.