The musical world is a large place with numerous options available to discover oneself in
sound.
When deciding on an instrument there are no incorrect paths, but a useful talent to have is the
ability to play the piano.
The piano, a versatile instrument created by the great Bartolomeo Cristofori in the 1700s, covers
a range of eighty-eight notes, and is able to produce a wide spectrum of musical styles.
In addition to the benefits it can bring by sharpening fine motor skills and hand-eye
coordination, playing the piano can significantly reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.
For this reason, piano lessons are a common choice of therapy for a range of illnesses.
The removal of these negative emotions results in the release of both serotonin and dopamine
(neurotransmitters that promote happiness and pleasure within the brain).
To lower stress, the piano successfully decreases cortisol levels which contributes to reducing
feelings of anxiety.
In a similar way, it acts as a way of emptying the emotions that weigh on one’s mind – this
creates a sense of relief.
Furthermore, the elegant instrument is known for preventing memory loss and cognitive decline
as a person ages; this is due to the mental exercise it gives the brain to perform a specific action
and creates additional neural connections that remain in old age.
In a time where the population fears the effect of mobile devices on attention span, the piano is
thought to also improve this through regular practice.
This may not mean that the piano can cure illnesses like dementia, but it can aid those who
suffer from significant memory loss.
Duncan Goodwin, a finalist in the television programme ‘The Piano’, was diagnosed with
dementia.
He is a clear representation of the positive impact playing the piano can have, as it remains a
main part of his life despite his condition.
Duncan had been playing the piano since the age of four, therefore suggesting he regularly
practiced the instrument, so he is likely to have developed the skills it produces.
In ‘The Piano’, he plays, not only a piece he composed himself for his wife, but successfully
performs it to the very end, despite his fear of forgetting.
This is only one of the many examples of how the piano has the heart of many musicians
throughout history.
Ultimately, the piano is an incredibly effective instrument, in terms of emotion and health.
It benefits the youth as it develops fine motor skills; it benefits adults as it reduces anxiety and
depression levels; and it benefits the elderly as it prevents cognitive decline.
There are no instruments quite like the piano.
