Is it ever too late to learn a musical instrument?

“I’d love to play the guitar, but I’m too old to start now.” If you have ever said something like this, you are not the only one. Many adults believe that only children can learn a musical instrument well. But teachers and scientists say that is simply not true.

It is true that children have some advantages. Their brains change easily, and they usually have more free time to practise. But adults have advantages too. They are often more patient, they understand why exercises are useful, and they choose to learn because they really want to – not because their parents told them to.

Learning an instrument also seems to be good for the brain at any age. Some studies suggest that playing music can improve memory and attention, because it uses many parts of the brain at the same time: you read notes, move your fingers and listen, all at once. Scientists are still studying how big these effects are, but most agree that it is a healthy activity.

There are other benefits too. Many people say that playing music helps them to relax after a stressful day. Others join a band or a choir and make new friends.

So how should you start? Teachers usually give three pieces of advice. First, choose an instrument you really love listening to. Second, practise a little every day – fifteen minutes daily is better than two hours once a week. Third, be realistic: you will make mistakes, and that is part of learning.

You probably won’t play in a famous concert hall. But you might play your favourite song for your friends – and that is a great goal.