How Playing an Instrument Could Be the Mental Health Boost Your Family Needs

We are delighted to host an article by musician and educator, Nicole Kovar, Founder and Executive Director of Piano & More.  Nicole is a passionate advocate for the intersection of music education and brain health. For over 15 years, Nicole has helped students of all ages to transform their lives through music, showing how playing an instrument can boost cognitive health, confidence, and emotional resilience. 

Thank you, Nicole, for your contribution to the wellbeing of families in Northern Virginia and beyond!

Dr. Bermudez at Amare Counseling and Education

Playing an Instrument: A Hidden Boost for Your Mental Health

Maybe you and your children have not had the time to play an instrument. It’s a busy world out there!  I wouldn’t blame you. But maybe, you decided to set a goal for you or your children and enrolled in piano lessons. You are fascinated and can feel there’s more to be won. In time, those keys become a song- before you know it, that song becomes a source of pride, comfort, and confidence. What many don’t realize is that beyond learning melodies, you’re also building something far deeper: your mental health. Whether someone in your family is wrestling with anxiety, navigating big emotions, or trying to figure out where you belong in the world, playing an instrument provides a sanctuary.

The Mental Health Magic of Music

Let’s talk about the science for a moment. Studies show that playing an instrument activates every part of the brain at once—especially areas associated with emotion regulation, memory, and coordination. According to the American Psychological Association, music engagement is linked to reduced stress, improved mood, and even stronger connections between peers. That sounds like a life changing hack to me!

But is playing an instrument really that impactful? Well, when you think about it, what happens inside of you when your favorite song unexpectedly starts playing while shopping in a store? Immediately, your brain will react with pleasure. This song resonates with something deeper within you. That “something deeper” are emotions. Music is the language of emotions and can command them to come forth within a couple of seconds.

Now imagine being able to play your favorite song on the piano. How impactful would it be to amplify this experience where the notes are vibrating throughout your body? Playing an instrument is powerful because it demands your mind to be present and open to the experience. Take it from one of my student’s, 14-year-old Sarah in Arlington, VA. She’s overwhelmed with being a freshman at her new high school. Adjusting to the increased assignment demands and new class schedule is taking her longer than expected. There are days when she’s filled with anxiety and self-doubt. When her homework feels too overwhelming, Sarah takes breaks by releasing some of her emotions on the piano. She plays older recital pieces and other favorite songs she’s accumulated throughout the years. “I end up forgetting about everything else and just enjoy where the music takes me,” Sarah says. Afterwards, she feels refreshed and ready to tackle what’s next.

The Flow State

Research supports the idea that playing an instrument can help individuals achieve a state of “flow,” characterized by deep concentration and immersion in an activity. A foundational source on this topic is the work of Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, the psychologist who originally coined the term flow. In his book Creativity: Flow and the Psychology of Discovery and Invention (1996), he specifically discusses professional musicians and composers who enter deep flow states while practicing or performing, describing how they lose track of time, feel fully immersed, and often experience joy or even transcendence during their music-making.

Another study by Custodero (1999) found that young children engaged in music learning often experience this optimal state when their perceived skill level and the challenge of the activity are both high. Additionally, engaging in activities that lead to a flow state can enhance focus and promote resilience in children. These findings suggest that musicians no matter how beginner or how young, can not only develop musical skills but also experience the psychological benefits associated with flow, such as reduced anxiety, increased joy, and improved emotional regulation.​

How To Start

In a world where children and adults are increasingly facing stress and mental health struggles, playing an instrument can be a powerful tool for supporting mental health. We all can struggle with racing thoughts or big feelings, and this kind of deep, mindful engagement can be a game-changer. Consider enrolling in private lessons to start your musical journey. Not only will weekly lessons help keep you disciplined and motivated, it will be much easier to learn alongside an expert who’s experienced in overcoming obstacles or applying different methods. Last but not least, it’s simply a lot more fun to start a new journey with someone who believes in you. If you’re ready to start music lessons, please check out Piano & More, your local neighborhood in-home lesson provider for piano, guitar, and voice lessons in Arlington, Falls Church and Mclean, VA. You can view what teachers have openings near you and book a trial lesson as low as $35. Our mission is to create happy and lifelong musicians of all ages. Hit the pause on the chaos and let’s activate a little musical island of peace for your family.

Written by Nicole Kovar
Founder & Executive Director of Piano & More