6 reasons why it’s not too late to learn a music instrument

Have you been considering piano lessons or a self-learning journey with a relative’s old guitar? Whether it's a new year’s resolution to pick up a new hobby or a lifelong dream on your bucket list, we’re here to tell you why it’s never too late to learn a musical instrument.

1. Music enhances your memory

A study by Stanford has shown that learning a musical instrument can stimulate areas of your brain involved in focusing, predicting, and updating memories. Over time, music engages your brain and improves its ability to retain information. Another study involving adults aged 60 to 85, with no musical experience, showed that a few weeks of music lessons improved their verbal fluency and processing speed.

While it may not be a guaranteed solution, research indicates that constant exposure to music can enhance your memory!

2. The connection between music and your wellbeing

Throughout adulthood, responsibilities related to your career or family may restrict you. It is often only after settling down that you consider doing something for yourself. Learning something new out of personal interest contributes to a sense of meaning in life, fostering belongingness, participation, and involvement.

Numerous studies have shown the positive effects of art education on individual wellbeing, with findings indicating that music-making in all its forms contributes positively to happiness. This makes learning a musical instrument a literal pursuit of happiness.

3. It's hard work, but it's not impossible to learn a musical instrument

Learning a musical instrument is akin to learning a new language. While it is often easier to learn during childhood, hard work is essential for mastering any skill, regardless of age. As the saying goes, “Rome wasn’t built in a day.”

Taking the first step, no matter when you do it, is crucial to mastering a musical instrument. There is no better time than now!

4. Online resources are just one click away

We are fortunate to live in a technologically advanced era where learning a new skill is just a Google search away.

The Soundbrenner Blog is a great starting point. Looking for online resources to learn music theory? We’ve got it. Unsure how to structure your practice sessions? We’ve got you covered! Need inspiration for your self-learning journey? We’re here to help.

If you’re a visual learner, check out Soundbrenner Learn on the Metronome by Soundbrenner app. Featuring professional instructors from various musical backgrounds, it covers everything from odd meters to essential music techniques.

The Internet is filled with millions of resources waiting for you to explore. You may even find that you enjoy the process of searching for educational sites as much as the learning itself.

5. Technological advancements have greatly enhanced the learning process

Combining online resources with innovative tools can significantly enhance your learning experience.

The Soundbrenner Pulse is a great starting point if you want a simple yet smart device to assist you. When you first start learning a musical instrument, the Pulse helps build and strengthen your sense of rhythm by internalizing the beat. Even after mastering rhythm, the Pulse can be used during practice sessions and gigs to help you feel the beat.

With innovative music-tech companies on the rise, take advantage of these tools to supplement your learning sessions.

6. You only live once

As cliché as it sounds, you really do only live once. Whether you’ve just reached adulthood or are gracefully aging, the opportunity to learn will always be there. If you have the resources to start learning a musical instrument, why not begin now?

If you’re waiting for a sign to get started, here it is: Your life is yours to live, so go and learn the piano! Take those violin lessons! Pick up that guitar! Remember that every master was once a beginner.