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The benefits of music education in childhood are well known. We know that learning a new instrument builds confidence, improves memory and coordination, and develops perseverance. But what are the benefits of continuing music education beyond childhood? Here at the Manitoba Conservatory of Music & Arts, we believe the benefits of learning to play an instrument extend well beyond childhood. We offer music lessons and group classes for students of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers to adults.
The lasting benefits of music education
Cognitive development
Continuing music education beyond childhood provides many benefits for adults students, including enhancing cognitive abilities such as memory, problem-solving and critical thinking.
Emotional and social benefits
Practicing music builds discipline, patience, and emotional expression. Our adult group classes and intergenerational ensembles build friendships and camaraderie, and well as teaching the value of teamwork.
Lifelong passion and enjoyment
Learning to sing or play an instrument such as the piano, guitar, violin or saxophone, can bring lifelong enjoyment, relaxation, and personal fulfillment for adult students.
Overcoming common obstacles in continuing music education
Busy schedules
It can be difficult for adult students to find the time to practice their instrument. If you’re a college or university student, completing assignments or studying for tests may take priority, and for busy parents, kids’ soccer and ballet schedules may interfere. That’s where creating a schedule can come in handy. Set aside a time each day when you can consistently practice your instrument. Stick to your schedule as much as possible, and it will become a habit you won’t want to miss.
It can also be helpful to take stock of your strengths and weaknesses so you can formulate a plan for your practice, maximizing the time you do have.
Shifting interests
It’s common for musical interests to evolve. If you played piano as a child, you might discover a passion for guitar or violin as an adult. And that’s OK! Your former studies will still benefit you today, allowing you to pick up a new instrument more quickly. You may be surprised by how much comes back to you! We offer a individual instruction for a variety of instruments, including piano, voice, strings, guitar and ukulele, winds and brass, and drum kit and percussion. With that variety, you’re sure to find the right instrument for you!
Motivation
Most musicians struggle with motivation at some point in their musical journey. Joining one of our group classes for adults, such as a vocal workshop, an ensemble, or a Musical Theatre for Adults class could be just what you need! You’ll make new friends and be inspired by your peers.
You might also enjoy performing at one of our adult coffee houses hosted throughout the academic year. You’ll have the opportunity share what you’ve been working on with others in a casual environment.
Our role in supporting lifelong learning
Highly qualified instructors
Our highly-qualified faculty members teach a wide range of musical styles and instruments, from piano, violin, and guitar to voice lessons and more. Each of our highly-qualified instructors have a degree in music or the equivalent in performance experience. A majority hold Bachelor degrees, many possess Masters degrees and some have earned Doctorate degrees. Our instructors consider themselves musician/teachers — professional musicians who teach.
Flexible learning options
We offer a variety of private music lessons and group music classes that cater to all ages, including teenagers and adults. These include Musical Theatre for Adults classes, vocal workshops and music appreciation classes.
For our private music lessons, we offer a free consultation with a faculty member to help you find the right path as your musical interests evolve. The student/instructor combination has a huge impact on a student’s learning, achieving and enjoyment of their musical experience. It’s important to make the best match possible! Most of our instructors teach from our studios at the Manitoba Conservatory of Music & Arts (in Bryce Hall on the University of Manitoba campus at 515 Portage Avenue). Some offer the option for virtual lessons, or lessons at an alternate location. This flexibility allows us to meet the different needs of our students.
Opportunities for performance and growth
Adult students are encouraged to attend and perform at our Adult Coffeehouse Recitals which are hosted throughout the academic year.
Through our outreach program, Music Equals, students are invited to participate in paid performance opportunities with professional faculty members in the Inter-Generational concert series. These performance opportunities allow students to be mentored by the faculty, gain confidence through performance, and share music with communities who may experience barriers to taking part in musical performances.
Students may also be invited to other performance opportunities that come up throughout the year.
We offer opportunities for adult students to learn at a high level, whether as a hobby or as a potential career path.
How to get started: enroll in private music lessons or a group class today
Begin your musical journey today by browsing through our faculty bios to get a sense of which faculty member you might be interested in meeting with, then let us know your preference when you request your free consultation with one of our faculty members. Or browse through our group class offerings for adults. We’ve got something for everyone!
The lifelong value of music
To reap the benefits of music study, think of your music training as a lifelong pursuit, and pursue music education beyond childhood. It’s never to late to begin studying music-we offer private music lessons for teens and adults of all ages and at all stages. We’re here to support you throughout your musical journey! If you have any questions, please call us at 204-988-7650.