Crestview High School's Spring Band Concert will be held 7 p.m. Thursday, May 14 at the Pearl Tyner Auditorium, 1250 Ferdon Blvd. N. Admission is free.
The program will feature four concert bands, two jazz bands and several small ensembles performing a variety of music from jazz standards to contemporary wind literature.
Under band director Jody Dunn and assistant band director Charles Andersen's direction, this concert is sure to be enjoyable, as were all of the band concerts I have attended.
The concerts are well attended, and since it is first come, first serve, they fill up quickly, so get there early to get a great seat.
But before you go, consider this: Research shows that playing a musical instrument develops certain brain processes. All music, both vocal and instrumental, requires regular instruction and practice, which develops our attention spans. A TedEd animation by educator Anita Collins states, "Playing music is the brain’s equivalent of a full-body workout… Playing an instrument engages practically every area of the brain at once — especially the visual, auditory, and motor cortices.
"And, as in any other workout, disciplined, structured practice in playing music strengthens those brain functions, allowing us to apply that strength to other activities…" (See the animation.)
Playing a musical instrument certainly teaches self-discipline, eye-hand coordination and multi-tasking skills. And, as CHS choral director Kevin Lusk said, "Music makes us better humans."
So there you have it. Practicing and playing an instrument are good for your brain — among other benefits. I am going to go practice my piano and do some vocalizing.
I hope to see you around town — please say "hi" if you see me.
Janice Lynn Crose lives in Crestview with her husband, Jim, her two rescue collies, Shane and Jasmine, and two cats, Kathryn and Prince Valiant.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: CROSE: Playing a musical instrument feeds the brain