Transform Your Brain in Just 15 Months (At Any Age!)

adult piano lessons brain benefits music and mental health piano learning Mar 04, 2025

What if I told you that you could rewire and strengthen your brain in just 15 months? No medications, no surgeries—just the joy of learning to play the piano. If you're looking for a way to sharpen your mind, boost your cognitive abilities, and improve your overall well-being, taking up the piano could be your answer. Science backs this up, and today, we'll explore the research that proves it. Plus, I’ll debunk common myths about learning piano as an adult and show you how to get started for free.

Scientific Studies on Piano and Brain Development

A 2009 study found that after just 15 months of weekly 30-minute piano lessons, children's brains exhibited physical changes. Compared to those who only had general music classes, the piano learners showed greater development in:

Hand coordination
Connections between the left and right hemispheres
Sound processing abilities
Language pattern recognition

And the most incredible part? These brain changes remained even after the study ended.

More recent studies have explored how piano benefits adults, with equally exciting findings. In one study, after just 11 weeks of weekly one-hour piano lessons, beginner adults experienced:

Improved cognitive function
Strengthened memory
Reduced stress, anxiety, and depression

Yes, children’s brains absorb information faster, but adults still develop new neural pathways—it just happens at a different pace.

Debunking Common Myths About Learning Piano as an Adult

Many adults hesitate to start learning piano due to self-doubt. Let’s put some of those myths to rest:

“I'm too old to learn.” Science says otherwise—adults can develop new skills and enhance brain function through piano.
“My brain isn’t wired for music.” Musical ability is developed through practice, not just innate talent.
“I missed my chance as a kid.” Learning piano at any age provides mental and emotional benefits.

As a piano teacher, I’ve seen people in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and even 80s start learning and thrive!

Take the 15-Month Piano Challenge

If you’ve ever dreamed of playing the piano, take this as your sign to begin! When you commit to learning for at least 15 months, you will:

Strengthen your ability to recognize patterns and sequences
Improve hand coordination and dexterity
Enhance your listening skills and appreciation for music
Experience the joy of learning something new

If you start today, imagine where you’ll be in 2026 (or whenever 15 months from today is!). The time will pass anyway—why not spend a little of it achieving your piano goals?

How to Get Started

If you have access to private lessons, that’s the best route—it provides personalized feedback and accountability. However, self-learning is also effective if you use structured resources, such as:

Apps or method books for a step-by-step approach
Online courses for guided instruction

For a completely free way to start, check out my beginner piano course on YouTube HERE. And if you want something more in-depth, consider joining Piano Roadmap Membership, which includes two extensive courses based on the Faber Adult Method Books, plus lessons in ear training, music theory, technique, and sight-reading that go way beyond the Faber books.

Your Piano Journey Begins Now

If today is the day you start, mark your calendar for 15 months from now and reflect on your progress. Whether you're looking to sharpen your mind, reduce stress, or fulfill a lifelong dream, learning piano is a gift that keeps giving. Let’s embark on this journey together!