It has been shown that learning in a group can create very positive outcomes for children, including:
higher achievement and increased retention
greater use of higher level reasoning strategies
greater ability to view situations from others' perspectives
more positive accepting and supportive relationships with peers regardless of ethnic, sex, ability or class differences
more positive attitude s towards teachers
more positive attitudes towards subject areas, learning and school
higher self esteem
greater social support
more positive psychological adjustment and health
less disruptive and more on task behaviour
greater collaborative skills
Joseph Goliger Implementation of a program of cooperative learning in an urban secondary piano laboratory (1995)
For older learners the benefits of learning the piano in a nurturing and enjoyable social environment include:
stimulates brain activity and engages the mind
maintains healthy, optimal brain functioning
generates a heightened sense of quality of life
promotes stress reduction, relaxation and decreased anxiety
provides a social network and outlet, which may combat loneliness
facilitates opportunity for continued learning and participation in life
develops concentration
fosters a sense of confidence and pride from achievement
Frederick Timms Scientific study indicates the music making makes the elderly healthier (unpublished manuscript Michigan State University 1999)
