Reflection

For this week, we were required to play instruments using environmental tools in a
group. There were many things that I learned from that activity. First, I learned to appreciate
nature. By playing instruments such as wooden sticks, leaves and others, I learned that
nature too can provide music. Next, it enhances our coordination when playing instruments
like the wooden sticks. We must follow the rhythm and the beat. When I learn how to play
instrument using stick, the parts of my brain that control motor skills actually grow and
become more active. By reading musical notes, our brain must convert that note into specific
motor patterns while also controlling breathing and rhythm as well. Also for most
instruments, I also must be able to have my fingers and/or limbs each performing different
tasks simultaneously. Therefore playing music requires a lot of hand-eye coordination. Last
but not least, my group learned to foster our self-expression. If we were better with the
instruments, we would be able to play whatever we want and however we want. Since music
is an art form, we can easily play a piece and use it as an outlet for our emotions. Playing an
instrument of our own will not only help to relax, but can help build confidence and give us a
sense of achievement. How cool is it to discover a talent we thought we never had? Music
can also provide a sense of independence and individuality, which in turn contributes to
ones own self-discovery and sense of identity.