There have been several studies recently that confirm a connection between music and math. There seems to be a strong pattern between math, language, and music. Music is essentially a series of notes played in a pre-established pattern. Math works in a similar way. There is a finite number of ways that you can add, multiply, subtract, and divide numbers, the ultimate combination is still finite.
Music too works in a similar fashion and pattern. There is an endless variety of groupings between notes, but the number of notes and sounds that exist is finite. Music and math similar to each other owing to the similarity in patterns and combinations. The processing of data about music and maths by our brain is diverse when compared to any other data or inputs.
Babies are first attracted to speech when it sounds rhythmic and melodic. Parents instinctively know to talk to a baby in a tone that has melodic and bold sounding words throughout, rather than using a normal voice. You will probably notice that the baby pays more attention to you when you speak to them in a poetic, mathematical stride to them rather than when your words are mundane and spoken in a normal tone of voice.
Observational studies have established that small children like to listen to music that has patterns and repetitive lines. It is felt that their brain computes music messages in a fashion that interests them immensely. As with exercises, the more you exercise the better it gets - similarly more we make children think, sharper their brains would become and they would be able to learn and absorb more.
Many young children start by making their own music, usually with anything they can get their hands on. As you listen to the sounds that they are making you will discern some kind of a pattern emerging. It is this ability to establish patterns out of random sounds that determines how well the child will do at math skills later in life.
During a child's growth, it's important to have music as a part of their life. Studies show that children who are active in music, whether as a result of playing an instrument or listening to a wide variety of music, perform better in math. The studies indicate that this is a result of their brains developing in such a way that they are able to discern patterns and repetition among the musical notes.
The art of calculation lies in understanding the pattern. When you follow a pattern, it shall take you to a conclusion. The key lies in knowing the pattern, be it a simple or a complex pattern, it needs to be followed for the same conclusion.
The music and math connection works both ways: it's common for children who do well in math class to be extremely successful when it comes to playing an instrument and reading musical notes. The combination of both these skills will often lead to better overall performance in school.
Making music an integral part of our lives right from birth places us on the fast track and gives us an advantage that can not be disputed. Increasingly, studies have confirmed the relationship between music and math and the benefits that accrue.
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Nigel Joneston is the chief editor for For Very Good Music, a fantastic resource for information about music. For questions or comments about this article why not visit: www.fvgmusic.com/articles
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