Written by: SRMC
Just like learning a new foreign language, picking up a new musical instrument is commonly seen as something that can only be done during a person’s formative years – anything after and it would be an extremely difficult, slow, and hopeless process.
However, while it may not be as easy to learn a new music instrument when you’re 50 as it is at 5, it is not impossible and can definitely be achieved as long as you put in your time and effort.
You may be 20, 30, 40, or 50 and above, and it’s still not too late to learn how to play a new musical instrument.
Here are 3 reasons why:
Adults have an easier time understanding concepts
While it may be true that children pick up learning how to play a new musical instrument faster, adults can also understand abstract, theoretical musical concepts more easily, such as intervals, arpeggios, and scales. While most children learn these concepts through practice, the analytical nature of adults give them an edge in grappling new concepts more easily.
Therefore, if you can put aside your desire for a perfect music-playing session and be open to making mistakes, you’re likely to learn more quickly than a child.
Adults tend to have stronger motivation than children
Many children take music classes only because their parents force them to, and not because they have any interest in music. However, as an adult, if one wishes to learn to play a musical instrument, it is their motivation that drives them. As such, learning to play a musical instrument in your adult years can make the experience a more enjoyable and meaningful one.
Learning how to play a musical instrument can exercise your brain
Playing musical instruments is a great way to help your brain stay sharp and alert. It is not only a way that many have used to strengthen their cognitive functions and abilities to stave off dementia but also offers many mood benefits for you to enjoy a higher quality of life!
So if you have been contemplating picking up a new instrument but are being held back by your age, we hope that this list will motivate you to do what you’ve been thinking of. Age is just a number! With the right amount of time and effort to practice every day, you may even surprise yourself with how quick of a learner you can be!
Good luck!