More pay, an improved ability to work with others and better spatial-temporal reasoning… According to studies, just some of the benefits you could gain from taking up a musical instrument …

Most people learn a musical instrument for pure enjoyment. However, a survey suggests that those with an understanding of music also become more successful and more confident in other areas.

A poll of adults carried out by an independent US research company, indicated that music education leads to higher education and a higher income. For instance, the poll showed that 83 per cent of those that earned $150,000 (£75,000) or more had a music education.

For many, the practical skills gained whilst learning an instrument or participating in an orchestra provided much more than an appreciation for music. The survey indicated that music lessons inculcated a sense of discipline and frequently enabled people to work better in a variety of group settings.
Of course the idea that music lessons can have important extra-musical benefits is not new. Researchers at Harvard University demonstrated 18 years ago that spatial-temporal reasoning (an ability to solve problems and think visually) in children improves when they learn to make music. Other studies have pointed out that music learners acquire transferable study, communication and cognitive skills, and perform well in  subjects such as mathematics  and engineering.

Music lessons or a music-related course, then, could be an excellent way of boosting your career prospects and academic performance, whatever your field. If you are a budding bassoonist or you fancy yourself as a flautist, this could be music to your ears.