It's a New Year, New Day and New Hobby

NAMM, the trade association of the international music products industry, recently conducted a Harris Poll that has everyone feeling the beat of a healthy new year. More than 2,000 people who don’t currently play a musical instrument were asked why they don’t. What was revealed is that they are ready to start making music in 2008.

• More than one in four (26%) people are looking at learning to play a musical instrument as their new year’s resolution in 2008
• Almost half (47%) of people who are interested in learning to play an instrument are finally getting around to starting
• Nearly half (46%) of respondents are likely or very likely to make “spending more time with family” and “reducing stress” their 2008 new year’s resolution
• Forty percent believe that playing an instrument reduces stress
• Thirty-five percent say they believe they don’t have natural talent to play and that prevents them from learning
• Twenty-three percent responded that feeling too old has held them back from playing a musical instrument.

In response to the survey results, NAMM encourages people of all ages to pick up an instrument and start making music. Playing a musical instrument has been scientifically proven to reduce stress, increase cognitive development, stave off depression and exercise the brain. And it is fun for all ages and talent levels.

“Loosen the tie, drop the briefcase and start to build bonds with your family and or friends by making music and you will instantly stop thinking about your stressful work day,” said Scott Robertson, director of marketing and communications, NAMM. “Who has time to think about deadlines when playing ‘Born to be Wild?’”

According to NAMM, baby boomer bands are popping up all over the nation, some playing gigs and many forming just to get together with friends.

The association strongly believes that we all have musical talent and it is never too late to start playing, according to Robertson.

“More and more instruments are being produced that make it easier to get started, and with today’s variety there is something for everyone at every stage,” he said.