Learning a musical instrument may help people with ADHD with attention, focus, memory, and auditory processing. Other benefits include enhanced emotional expression and self-esteem.
Whether you’re the parent of a child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or have it yourself, finding alternative or complementary techniques to help manage symptoms can be a plus. It can be even more positive when you identify such an activity that you find enjoyable or productive.
For some people with ADHD, that activity is music. Recent research suggests learning to tickle the ivories or strum on a six-string may offer some enticing benefits for children and adults with ADHD.
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Improves attention and focus
A 2023 review notes that music can improve hemispheric synchrony — the balance of activity between the two sides of your brain. Scientists think this can improve cognition, including attention.
Other research suggests that engaging with the structural elements of music (meter, rhythm, form, etc.) may form connections in the brain that improve attention. However, more research is needed.
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From a parent“When [my son] concentrates, he tends to fidget with his hands. Playing the guitar gives him a natural outlet for the fidgets, and he’s able to direct that energy into the music. This seems to quiet his mind while he’s playing, and he seems more calm afterwards.”
— Megan, parent of 9-year-old with ADHD
Improves memory
The same cognitive effects of music learning that influence attention can also improve memory. Musical learning can specifically improve working memory, which is the memory you store temporarily (for a few seconds) while working on a task.
A 2018 study highlighted the link between musical training and working memory. Scientists think music learning places strong demands on the brain, which may help strengthen connections within the brain.
Improves auditory processing
Many children with ADHD also have difficulties with auditory processing. Even though their hearing is typical, their brain may find it challenging at times to understand and interpret certain sounds.
A 2021 research review found evidence that musical experience can improve auditory processing in people of all ages. In children, this benefit also contributed to improved language development.
Improves social skills
Many people who learn an instrument or study singing also participate in a musical ensemble. Ensembles present opportunities for people with ADHD to work creatively with others and develop social skills through interaction.
A 2024 study found that teenagers who participated in music reported improved communication and interpersonal skills. While there’s not much research specific to ensemble participation for people with ADHD, a 2023 review notes that active music therapy — meaning the therapy involves the creation of music — helps develop social skills in people with ADHD.
Improves emotional expression
Children and adults with ADHD can experience emotional dysregulation, meaning they have difficulty managing their emotions.
Several studies, including a recent 2023 study in teens, have found that passive music interventions (listening to music) can help with emotional regulation in people with ADHD. However, research suggests that performing music has the same effect on the areas of your brain that manage emotion as listening to music.
From a parent“We were worried that learning an instrument would trigger some of his tendencies towards big emotions when things aren’t perfect, but for whatever reason, this hasn’t been the case. When he plays an incorrect note, he takes it in stride. I can’t say that this would be everyone’s experience, but it has been ours.”
— Megan, parent of 9-year-old with ADHD
Improves self-esteem
Research also links active music interventions with increased self-esteem. The achievements of learning an instrument, learning to read music, and creating music can be a source of pride. Receiving applause after a concert can be affirming. Making new friends with shared interests in an ensemble setting may also be a confidence booster.
ADHD influences people’s lives differently. There’s no one “best” musical activity that works for all people with ADHD. However, researchers have observed some trends.
People with ADHD may benefit from musical instruction that involves movement. This may help develop connections in the brain’s motor cortex (areas responsible for movement), which has links to ADHD symptoms. Movement is also a great way for children with ADHD to channel excess energy.
Because it involves more fine motor coordination, learning an instrument may be more beneficial for some people than singing lessons. In a 2016 study, most children with ADHD chose to play the guitar or drums.
However, many voice teachers and choir conductors incorporate movement into their instruction. Singing might also be a helpful activity for kids with ADHD who experience vocal stimming.
What’s most important is to find an activity that you or your child enjoys and wants to keep practicing.
From a parent“So my son has learned the hyperfocus of ADHD is his superpower. He loves music and loud, repetitive music helps him focus. He is 17 and has a passion for music producing. I encourage it!”
— Kristin
People with ADHD may also experience some challenges with learning music. Learning the technique to play an instrument or learning how to read music often requires paying close attention to details.
Practicing an instrument may also be a challenge. Teachers often request that students devote some time to individual practice every day. Depending on how this time is structured, a person with ADHD may have some challenges staying focused enough to make this practice time effective. Ineffective practice can often make the experience unenjoyable.
Ensemble practices may also pose a challenge for some people with ADHD. Challenges common in classroom settings may be apparent here, especially in instances where the conductor or ensemble leader needs to work with a musician or section that doesn’t involve the person with ADHD.
Research also suggests that young people with ADHD may face certain barriers with regard to music performance and self-assessment of their skills and progress. This may not be an issue for most people who participate in music as a leisure activity. Still, it’s worth noting if you want to pursue music further.
Some people may find that music lessons can help reduce certain symptoms of ADHD, such as inattention, forgetfulness, auditory processing challenges, and emotional dysregulation. If learning music interests you, it might be worth trying, though it may take some time to determine which musical activity best suits you.
Still, music lessons aren’t for everyone. Some people with ADHD find musical settings challenging. If music lessons don’t seem to be helping symptoms, don’t try to force it. Talk with a specialist about other activities that might engage you and offer similar benefits.