Making Joyful Music - The Benefits of an Early Music Education

At Hilden Oaks, we believe in cultivating the brilliance within the whole child. One of the keys to our success is giving children the very best start with weekly sessions with our wonderful music specialist, Mrs Gomez. Research consistently highlights the profound benefits of introducing young children to music, extending far beyond the ability to play an instrument or carry a tune.

Developing the Whole Brain

Early exposure to music activates multiple areas of the brain simultaneously, fostering connections between the left and right hemispheres. Studies from institutions like Harvard and MIT have shown that music training enhances neural pathways associated with memory, attention, and problem-solving. Children engaged in music develop stronger spatial-temporal reasoning skills, which are fundamental for subjects like mathematics and science. The act of reading music, keeping rhythm, and coordinating movements engages auditory, visual, and motor areas of the brain, creating a well-rounded foundation for cognitive development.

Enhancing Socialisation Skills

Music is inherently social. Whether through group lessons, choir, or band, children learn to collaborate, listen to others, and work towards a common goal. These interactions build empathy and teach the importance of teamwork. Participating in a musical ensemble helps children develop patience, turn-taking, and respect for diverse perspectives—qualities that align with our values of kindness and bravery. Group music-making creates a sense of belonging and shared purpose, crucial for a child’s emotional well-being.

Fostering Communication and Self-Expression

Music is often described as a universal language, and for young children, it provides an invaluable outlet for self-expression. Singing and playing instruments help children articulate emotions they may not yet have the words to express. Research also shows that musical training improves language development, as it enhances phonemic awareness and auditory discrimination—skills essential for reading and verbal communication.

At Hilden Oaks, our early music education program is designed to cultivate these lifelong benefits. We empower children to be brave in their creativity, brilliant in their learning, and kind in their collaboration. By integrating music into the early years, we’re setting the stage for our students to thrive in all areas of life, embodying the principles of "Kind, Brave, Brilliant."

Sharon Wade
Headteacher