Why Music Matters
Music has the power to inspire, connect, and transform lives. On this page, you can explore educational resources, activities, and research that showcase the importance of music and music education. Check back regularly for new trivia questions, music challenges, and fun facts!
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Music and the Brain
Music is one of the rare activities that activates multiple areas of the brain simultaneously. When we listen to or perform music, regions coordinate to process sound, emotion, memory, and movement, which helps explain its strong influence on learning and memory retention.
Did You Know?
Which famous scientist played the violin and believed music helped them think through difficult problems?
Music and the Heart
Music does more than entertain—it can also support emotional well-being and strengthen social connections. Whether listening alone or making music with others, music has been shown to positively affect mood, stress levels, and feelings of belonging.
Did You Know?
What can happen when a group of people sing together?
Music Around the World
Music is a universal language that connects people across cultures and generations. Nearly every civilization has developed its own instruments, styles, and traditions. Though it varies worldwide, music still serves similar purposes like storytelling, celebration, communication, and uniting communities.
Did You Know?
What is believed to be the oldest known musical instrument ever discovered?
Keep Exploring
Music can help us learn, connect with others, express emotions, and discover new cultures. Whether you’re listening, singing, or playing an instrument, there is always something new to explore.
Information on this page was compiled from organizations including:
Johns Hopkins Medicine
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Harvard Health Publishing
American Music Therapy Association
Smithsonian Folkways
UNESCO
American Museum of Natural History
