Multiple studies have found a correlation between music study and academic achievement. But what drives this connection? According to professionals in industries such as tech, finance, and media, their past experiences as musicians have contributed to their success. These individuals, who have achieved great heights in their respective fields, attribute their accomplishments to the skills and qualities developed through music training.
The connection between music training and professional success extends beyond the math-music association. Many high achievers credit music with opening up pathways to creative thinking. Music training is also said to sharpen qualities such as collaboration, the ability to listen, and a way of thinking that combines disparate ideas. Additionally, music training enables individuals to focus on the present and future simultaneously.
The phenomenon is evident in the lives of numerous visionaries. For instance, Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft, played guitar, while Woody Allen, the renowned filmmaker, played clarinet. Other notable examples include Larry Page, co-founder of Google, who played saxophone in high school, and Steven Spielberg, the acclaimed filmmaker, who is a clarinetist and son of a pianist.
Many high achievers have leveraged the lessons of focus and discipline learned through music to develop new ways of thinking and communicating. This is evident in the careers of individuals such as Andrea Mitchell, a journalist who trained as a professional violinist, and James D. Wolfensohn, former World Bank president, who played cello at Carnegie Hall.
The link between music training and success is not limited to a specific industry or field. Musicians can be found at the top of almost any profession. For example, Chuck Todd, a prominent journalist, attended college on a music scholarship and played French horn. Similarly, Roger McNam, a venture capitalist, has a rock band.
Experts agree that the connection between music training and success is not coincidental. Alan Greenspan, the former Fed chief, who gave up jazz clarinet but still plays, notes that the probability of this connection being mere chance is extremely small. He emphasizes that the crucial question is why this connection exists.
While music training may not guarantee success, it is clear that it provides individuals with valuable skills and qualities that can benefit them in various aspects of life. As the research suggests, music study can have a profound impact on an individual's ability to think creatively, collaborate, and focus.
Key points
- Music training has been linked to success in various fields, including tech, finance, and media.
- High achievers attribute their success to skills and qualities developed through music training, such as creative thinking and collaboration.
- The connection between music training and success is not limited to a specific industry or field.
