I was lucky enough to grow up with a piano in my home. Taking piano lessons for nine years was one of the most impactful parts of my childhood. My piano teacher, Barbara, was the main motivator for my constant piano practice. Weekly lessons helped me stay focused and engaged with the pieces I was working on. Looking back on all the time I spent learning to play piano, I know it has impacted me positively. It translates into getting my degree and my work environment. The practice of being consistent and staying driven to accomplish something reflects into my goal-keeping strategies today. I’m forever grateful for my situation as a child and having the privilege to grow up playing an instrument.
Many kids don’t get this opportunity. There are many benefits of learning music at a young age, most of which last throughout one’s life. The nonprofit: Notes for Notes (N4N) has committed to solving this problem. Their mission is: “To provide youth with free access to musical instruments, instruction, and a music-making environment so that music can become a profoundly positive influence in their lives.” Founded in 2006, they searched for ways to provide public schools with music equipment and programs to promote positive growth. Today, they are constantly impacting over 11 states by providing opportunities for kids to explore their musical sides through Boys and Girls clubs and youth facilities. By providing creative outlets for the youth around the country, they are giving kids the opportunity to get to know their artistic side.
Their website says, “Packed with guitars, drums, keys/synths, DJ gear, groove stations, podcasting and full digital recording facilities N4N Studios provide young musicians with the tools, freedom and support to create original music. Pickup an instrument for the first time or cut your first single, all paths to music can start at Notes for Notes.” Notes for Notes makes it possible for kids around the country to have an opportunity that they might not otherwise have.
Many studies have shown that learning how to play an instrument at a young age produces cognitive, psychical and social benefits. Regardless of age, playing an instrument can have such a positive impact. With the youth, the benefits can carry throughout their lives because habits are formed during the very critical stages of brain development. Being able to contribute to the accessibility of musical instruments for younger generations is such a fulfilling feeling. Notes for Notes receives support from many different aspects of public involvement. People can sponsor or partner with N4N to establish studios around the country and potentially help the organization expand worldwide. You can also donate here and your efforts will go directly to providing youth with these amazing opportunities. Other ways you can support Notes for Notes motivations are volunteering your time and donating instruments to their studios for students. Read more about their mission and expansion of enhancing the creative minds in our youth here. Notes for Notes, https://www.notesfornotes.org/.