Benefits of Playing an Instrument - In addition to experiencing the joy of creating music with others, meeting new friends, and even getting to take trips with the band as you get older, music also helps your brain development. Click here to hear a Ted talk, “How playing an instrument benefits your brain.” (hint: after a few seconds, you can click “Skip ads.”) Students also learn teamwork and perseverance in band. Colleges often look for students who have had long-term experience with an activity, because these students learn that hard work over a long period leads them to mastery. Being in band through 12th grade means you will have 8 to 9 years of experience! Hopefully, many students will also continue to enjoy playing their instruments in college and afterwards.