How does learning to play a musical instrument impact health? New research suggests that learning to play music supports processes in the brain. 

Study Summary 

This new research, which included 31 adults, found that: 

• Learning to play a musical instrument may improve the ability to process sight and sound, what is called ‘multi-sensory processing.’ Enhancing this processing can improve our abilities to drive a car, identify a person etc.
• The accuracy of this multi-sensory processing also improved after musical training, across other tasks.
• Additionally, there was a reduction in depression, anxiety and stress after the musical intervention. 

The Hearty Take

Musical training may have a role in improving skills that require multi-sensory processing. It may also be of benefit for those suffering with mental health conditions. This research is promising, but there is still a need for more research to cement these findings. In any case, it can’t hurt to pick up an instrument!