Unlocking learning potential through music

Ten years ago, musician Angélica Durrell began teaching Connecticut high school students to play instruments. This program, aimed at struggling Latino students, quickly became a vital tool for improving attendance, language skills, and social comfort. Today, Durrell’s non-profit, Intempo, serves over 3,000 students annually, demonstrating music’s profound impact on cognitive and social-emotional learning (SEL). 

Music engages the brain uniquely, activating cognitive, sensory, motor, and reward systems. Neuroscientist Nina Kraus notes that playing an instrument is one of the richest brain activities, leading to better language and reading skills. The type of instrument doesn't matter; what’s crucial is that engaging with sound strengthens brain responses. 

A great read!