Many families have experienced firsthand the lasting impacts of their children learning to play a musical instrument.
A recent study from Northwestern University supported this, citing that students experience stronger neural processing after actively engaging in music training.
The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, a nonprofit that provides a variety of education and outreach programs to introduce younger generations to the arts, often sees examples of students transformed by the performing arts.
These include Jordan Farber and Parsa Sabet, two teen Las Vegas musicians selected to perform on NPR’s national program “From the Top,” showcasing performances and interviews with America’s most talented young performers.
Each will perform for a national audience during the NPR’s live broadcast of the show at 2 p.m. on Sunday, February 25 at The Smith Center.
Both Parsa, a guitarist, and Jordan, a bassoon player, say that music has played a significant role in their lives, teaching them the dedication of practicing several hours a day and the confidence of performing at a high level.
“What’s kept me going is the challenge,” Jordan says of the difficulty of learning his instrument. “I like that, even though it’s something I have to work hard at.”
Below are just a few more benefits children and youths experience through learning an instrument.
Improved Memory
Learning an instrument can expand children’s working memory capacity, according to Northwestern University’s research. This can help lead to improved academic performance.
Enhanced Coordination
Playing an instrument helps develop hand-eye coordination, which can support children in learning new skills later in life.
Social Interaction
Playing an instrument also promotes children’s social development by opening them to a wide variety of social interactions, from playing with ensembles to performing before live audiences. This can promote learning collaboration and building confidence.
Experience Las Vegas’ Young Talent
The general public is welcome to watch teen Las Vegas musicians Parsa Sabet and Jordan Farber perform on NPR’s “From the Top” live broadcast on Sunday, February 25 at The Smith Center.
Floor seats start from $19 and can be purchased at www.TheSmithCenter.com.
