On the secular side, too, educators recognize the benefits of music education. A study conducted at the University of North Texas showed that college-aged music students generally have fewer problems with alcohol, are healthier emotionally, and have a stronger ability to concentrate and study than do students in other fields of study. Further analysis of the results showed the two groups also differed both in their perceived ability to concentrate and study and in their self-esteem. The music majors generally showed confidence, whereas the nonmusic majors tended to show concern. The disparity between the two groups was significant.
Music can help prepare young people for life in other ways, as well.
The skills learned in presenting a message in music to an audience are transferable to other situations in life. When young people have been on stage performing, they generally exhibit a self-confidence that can stay with them the rest of their lives. These young people are not fearful of job interviews or of meeting new people, because they have had the experience of being in front of others. Schools should introduce music to not only those who do have musical talent but also to those who apparently do not. Once introduced to music, many students are found to have at least some musical ability.