Everyone loves music—it is fun to listen to and dance to and, for some, even make. But not only is it a pleasurable thing in our day-to-day lives, it’s actually quite an important part of society. At school, there are so many ways to connect with your peers: sports, studies, clubs, books…but music is a way to not only learn more about each other but also grow our creative talents. For you, it may start with a recorder in class or a piano lesson after school. But no matter what you choose, an instrument has unlimited power when it comes to connecting with others.

Music can mirror your thoughts

Lyrics and melodies have always had a wonderful way of communicating messages and your emotional state. Music is around to speak the words that we cannot express. Maybe you feel too anxious and worried to talk about how you feel and what is bothering you—whether it be at home or in school. Putting these feelings into song will help you with that. If you feel that communication is not strong for you and you tend to veer more towards the creative side of things, pick up an instrument and start exploring what is going on in your head. What do you want to say but can’t? Mr. Guitar can do that for you!

Teamwork

Performing music means coordinating your efforts; when we try to synch up with others musically (think harmonizing or being on the same beat), we are working as a team to create something all parties can enjoy. In school, teamwork is essential for building friendships, trust and for growing your people skills. Working on writing a song with someone else or learning the chords to that new hit you both love means creating something that both of you will remember the other for. Creating something new is the ultimate bonding experience.

Getting some culture

Music is the universal language (cheesy, I know, but so true!) It is a way we can share our traditions, beliefs and political interests. In your school there are many kids from different cultural backgrounds and chances are they all have music they know that helps to share what their background is like. Music influences how we think about others, how we get along and how we accept others. Never underestimate the power of a song. As mentioned above, sometimes there’s more meaning in a song than in regular words.