What’s the skill businesses look for the most when hiring? What do more people wish they had?
Creativity.
- CEOs say creativity is the #1 factor for future success.
- 78 percent of college-educated workers over 25 wish they had more creative ability.
- Creativity is or is related to 9 of the top 10 skills that global executives say are essential for 2020 and beyond.
Creativity is that important. But where do you get it? How do you build your own creative spirit?
It might start by playing the piano.
It improves mental wellbeing
Playing the piano serves as a therapeutic outlet for the mind, giving you a chance to escape the pressures of daily life and immerse yourself in the soothing melodies of music. Research has shown that engaging in musical activities like piano playing triggers the release of endorphins, the brain’s natural “feel-good” chemicals, which promote a sense of relaxation and reduce levels of stress hormones like cortisol. The rhythmic repetition of piano practice can induce a meditative state, fostering mindfulness and promoting emotional well-being. Whether it’s finding solace in melancholic melodies or experiencing joy through upbeat tunes, the piano offers a sanctuary for the soul to unwind and rejuvenate.
It gives your brain a boost
The intricate mental processes involved in piano playing provide a powerful workout for the brain, leading to enhanced cognitive function and improved neural connectivity. Learning to read music, decipher complex rhythms, and coordinate eye/hand movements engages multiple areas of the brain simultaneously, stimulating neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new connections. As a result, regular piano practice has been associated with improved memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. The cognitive demands of piano playing can have long-lasting effects, helping to stave off age-related cognitive decline and maintaining cognitive function well into old age.
It improves coordination
Navigating the keyboard of a piano requires precise coordination between the hands, fingers, and eyes, honing motor skills and spatial awareness. As a beginner, you’ll learn to synchronize their movements to produce coherent melodies. Then, you’ll gradually refine your fine motor control and proprioception. As proficiency increases, you’ll develop a keen sense of touch and muscle memory, giving you a chance to execute complex passages with fluidity and precision. Beyond the physical aspects, mastering coordination on the piano fosters discipline and perseverance, as each improvement in technique requires dedicated practice and attention to detail.
It slows down aging
Engaging in intellectually stimulating activities like piano playing has been shown to have a protective effect on cognitive function as we age. Research suggests that the mental challenges inherent in learning and mastering a musical instrument contribute to maintaining cognitive reserve—the brain’s ability to withstand age-related changes and neurological damage. Playing the piano stimulates various cognitive functions, including executive function, working memory, and auditory processing, thereby promoting cognitive resilience and delaying the onset of cognitive decline. And if that isn’t reason enough, the emotional satisfaction derived from musical expression can enhance overall quality of life and psychological well-being in older adults.
Go BIG or stay small, it’s up to you
One of the unique qualities of learning the piano is the flexibility it offers for personalized progression. Whether you aspire to become a virtuoso performer gracing concert halls around the world or simply enjoy playing for your own pleasure, the piano accommodates a wide range of aspirations and skill levels. Beginners can start with simple exercises and gradually work their way up to more challenging repertoire, building a solid foundation of technique and musical understanding along the way. Advanced players have the freedom to explore complex compositions and refine their interpretive skills, pushing the boundaries of their artistic expression. Whether your musical journey leads you to grand stages or intimate gatherings, the piano offers a canvas for self-expression and personal growth.
It’s ideal for beginners
For beginners embarking on their musical journey, the piano provides an accessible and rewarding introduction to the world of music. Unlike many other instruments, the piano offers a visual representation of musical concepts, with each key corresponding to a specific pitch, making it easier to grasp fundamental musical principles such as melody, harmony, and rhythm. Additionally, the tactile feedback of the keys allows beginners to develop a tactile understanding of musical intervals and relationships, laying the groundwork for more advanced musical endeavors. With a wealth of beginner-friendly resources available, including method books, online tutorials, and instructional videos, aspiring pianists can embark on their musical odyssey confidently and enthusiastically, guided by the timeless appeal of the piano’s rich and expressive sound.
It’s perfect for advanced levels, too
For seasoned players seeking to push the boundaries of their musical expression, the piano offers endless opportunities for artistic exploration and refinement. Advanced pianists can delve into the vast repertoire spanning centuries of musical history, from the timeless masterpieces of the classical era to the innovative compositions of contemporary composers. Through dedicated practice and study, advanced players can hone their technical proficiency and interpretive skills, bringing depth and nuance to their performances. Whether it’s mastering the intricacies of a Chopin étude, interpreting the emotional depths of a Beethoven sonata, or exploring the harmonic complexity of a jazz improvisation, the piano offers a lifelong journey of discovery and growth for players at every level of expertise.
So, what’s your goal? What do you desire? If creativity has been on the backburner, what not move it forward? Whether you choose a new or used piano, bringing one into your home can be the start of something beautiful.
How can we help you finalize your selection?
