I wrote an article for the East Lansing online newspaper ELinfo to encourage people to join the New Horizons band. My original article had references to information you can find in google if you look up music and health and a portion of that original article is below. But because I didn’t cite any references in my original, the ELi editor decided to remove the health benefit comments and she did a good job of organizing some of my original thoughts about how fun it is to play in a band. The published version of the article is here on the EL info site.
But since I am not a newspaper and use this forum to present my personal opinions, I felt that it would be OK for me to make reference to health benefits here in my personal blog, even if not scientifically proven, so that is what I have done below. While I have not cited any references to research, most of the suggestions of health benefits are based on some limited research studies and you can probably look up most of them by doing a quick google or literature search. Beat the Blues with Music Adults can beat the winter blues by learning to play music. Michigan State University’s Community Music School has opportunities for adults of any age and any musical skill level to learn to play an instrument. New Horizons was originally started in 1991 at the Eastman School of Music by Dr. Roy Ernst, the program was designed to give adults the opportunity to learn and play band instruments in a low-pressure friendly setting. The program was opened to both adult beginners and those that had not played in many years. In the time since the first classes in Rochester (NY), interest has grown, and similar New Horizons music programs have been started in hundreds of locations around the world. In 2003, local music educator Patti Kroth, developed a chapter of New Horizons Band through the MSU Community Music School. The idea for that original band was well received and membership has remained steady with well over 60 adults that currently play in one of three different New Horizons bands taught by four different directors, including two concert bands and a jazz band. New members are welcome to join any time and prospective members are encouraged to sit in on a rehearsal to see what it is like. While it may seem daunting to take on a challenge like learning an instrument, especially for adults, the New Horizons Music program is designed to be a less intimidating environment. Learning as a group offers social support from others going through the same experiences. In addition to the enjoyment of learning and playing a variety of different types of music, there are many health benefits associated with music. Playing in a music group can help beat the blues by offering a venue for self-expression and a sense of belonging through social interaction. One of the most rewarding aspects of playing is performing for outreach programs. Seeing the expressions of people listening to and enjoying music that is familiar to them is a unique experience. In addition to the satisfaction from performances, research has shown that playing music can help reduce depression and blood pressure, improve memory as well as improve quality of life with perceived improvement in health and self-esteem. Many of these health improvements are similar to what would be expected if one were to start an exercise routine. So, for adults learning to play music, an instrument can be like an exercise machine for the brain. The new semester for New Horizons Music at the MSU Community Music school starts at the end of January and, for the first time, will include a New Horizons Strings program. Anyone that is looking for an entry or reentry point for playing in a string orchestra or playing a wind/percussion instrument in a concert band is welcome to contact the Community Music School at (517)-355-7661.
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AuthorDaniel Zarka Archives
March 2019
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