Researchers at Northwestern University found that people who play a musical instrument generally have a greater memory, attention span, and ability to convey emotions. Such activity can also help develop enhanced speech and language skills.

“The effect of music training suggests that, akin to physical exercise and its impact on body fitness, music is a resource that tones the brain for auditory fitness and thus requires society to reexamine the role of music in shaping individual development,” the scientists concluded.

According to the researchers, the brain builds new neural connections (paths for information to travel through your brain) while learning to play music. This increases the brain’s ability to adapt and change.

In fact, The Telegraph reported, “Learning to play a musical instrument has definite benefits and can increase IQ by seven points.”

Musical training can do much more than improve your IQ. The newspaper added: “We have also seen that musicians are able to pick out exactly what others are feeling just on the tone of their voices. Empathy, disappointment, that kind of thing.”

These findings have also helped treat children with disabilities such as dyslexia and autism. Regardless of age, music can help individuals with various health conditions as music therapy is increasingly used “to promote wellness, manage stress, alleviate pain, enhance memory, improve communication, and promote physical rehabilitation” (ScienceDaily).

Now that you know there is more to music than meets the ear, if you have access to a musical instrument, start practicing! Perhaps it has been a while, but it is time to blow the dust off that old keyboard, guitar, etc.

Even if funds are limited, everyone has access to at least one instrument: the human voice. Singing can help you to immediately get started on the mental workout of a lifetime. With a little effort, you and your friends will soon be making music—and increasing your brain power—together!