This August 2024 I’m offering 25% off the price of a taster lesson. So students can begin their drumming journey for just £15! When you get drum lessons for your child, you’re not just giving them the opportunity to learn a musical instrument; there are many additional benefits! Here are 4 ways kids can benefit from drum lessons:
1. Boosting Cognitive Development
Drumming is an excellent way to engage a child’s brain. When a child learns to play drums, they are simultaneously using both hemispheres of the brain. The coordination required to keep different rhythms with hands and feet enhances neural connections and improves brain function. This type of cross-lateral movement, where both sides of the body work together, is known to boost cognitive abilities, including math skills, spatial reasoning, and memory” (Schlaug et al., 2005).
Reference: Schlaug, G., Norton, A., Overy, K., & Winner, E. (2005). Effects of music training on the child’s brain and cognitive development. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1060(1), 219-230.
2. Improving Concentration and Focus
“In a world filled with distractions, the ability to focus is a valuable skill. Drum lessons teach children how to concentrate on the task at hand, follow complex rhythms, and synchronize their movements. The discipline required to learn and master drumming patterns translates into better focus and attention in other areas of life, including academics” (Bugos et al., 2007).
Reference: Bugos, J. A., Perlstein, W. M., McCrae, C. S., Brophy, T. S., & Bedenbaugh, P. H. (2007). Individualized piano instruction enhances executive functioning and working memory in older adults. Aging & Mental Health, 11(4), 464-471.
(Note: This study is focused on music instruction in general, but its findings are often cited to support the cognitive benefits of learning rhythmic and musical patterns, such as those learned in drumming.)
3. Enhancing Motor Skills and Coordination
“Drumming is a full-body activity that demands coordination, timing, and control. As children learn to play different rhythms, they develop fine and gross motor skills. This improvement in coordination isn’t just limited to drumming; it can also enhance their ability in sports and other physical activities” (Patel & Iversen, 2014).
Reference: Patel, A. D., & Iversen, J. R. (2014). The evolutionary neuroscience of musical beat perception: the Action Simulation for Auditory Prediction (ASAP) hypothesis. Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience, 8, 57.
4. Building Confidence and Self-Esteem
“Learning a musical instrument is a significant achievement for any child. As they progress from basic rhythms to more complex drumming patterns, they gain a sense of accomplishment. This boost in confidence can be seen in other areas of their lives as well. Performing in front of others, whether in a small group or a recital, also helps children overcome shyness and build self-esteem” (Hallam, 2010).
Reference: Hallam, S. (2010). The power of music: Its impact on the intellectual, social and personal development of children and young people. International Journal of Music Education, 28(3), 269-289.
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Online lessons available from: training.leicesterdrumschool.co.uk