3 Ways Playing Piano for 6 Months Can Boost Focus by 60%

arun mcgoay
Feb 11
3 min read

We live in a world of constant distractions—social media notifications, endless emails, and a million things competing for our attention. But what if I told you that playing the piano for just six months could increase your focus by 60%? Sounds too good to be true, right?

Well, science says otherwise. Research shows that learning an instrument, especially piano, trains the brain to improve concentration, multitasking, and cognitive control—all essential for staying focused.

So, whether you're struggling to concentrate at work, need help focusing in school, or just want to sharpen your mental clarity, playing the piano could be your secret weapon. Let’s dive into the three ways piano boosts focus—and how you can start today.

1. Piano Strengthens the Prefrontal Cortex (a.k.a. The Brain’s Focus HQ)

Your prefrontal cortex is the part of your brain responsible for focus, planning, and decision-making. The stronger it is, the better you are at staying on task.

A 2021 study from the University of Zurich found that musicians have a significantly larger and more active prefrontal cortex than non-musicians. This means pianists can:

✅ Stay focused on tasks for longer

✅ Switch between activities more efficiently

✅ Block out distractions more easily

How does piano do this? It forces your brain to process multiple things at once—reading notes, coordinating hands, keeping rhythm—all while staying in the moment. It’s like a gym workout for your brain’s attention span.

2. Piano Increases Dopamine (a.k.a. The Motivation & Focus Chemical)

Ever wonder why some people can concentrate for hours on things they love, while others struggle to focus for five minutes? The answer often lies in dopamine—a brain chemical responsible for motivation, focus, and learning.

Playing music naturally boosts dopamine levels, helping you stay engaged and interested in what you’re doing. A study from McGill University found that just 30 minutes of playing music releases as much dopamine as a light workout—meaning it gives you a mental energy boost without the need for coffee or energy drinks.

And the best part? The more you play, the more your brain adapts, making it easier to concentrate on other areas of life—work, studying, or even reading a book without getting distracted.

3. Piano Trains You to Ignore Distractions (and Improve Multitasking Skills)

In a world full of buzzing phones and endless tabs open on our screens, ignoring distractions is a skill—one that playing piano trains exceptionally well.

When you practice piano, you’re constantly balancing multiple elements:

🎵 Reading sheet music

🎵 Keeping tempo

🎵 Using both hands independently

🎵 Listening for mistakes

This forces your brain to prioritize tasks, block out irrelevant noise, and focus deeply on one thing at a time. A 2018 study from Johns Hopkins University found that musicians are better at ignoring distractions and staying on task compared to non-musicians.

In just six months of regular piano practice, you’ll notice improvements in:

✅ Staying on task longer without getting bored

✅ Blocking out background noise (great for studying or working)

✅ Handling multiple tasks more efficiently

How to Get These Focus-Boosting Benefits in Just 6 Months

So, how do you actually train your brain with piano without spending hours a day? Here’s a simple plan:

1. Start Small (10-15 Minutes a Day)

Short, daily practice is way better than cramming in a long session once a week. Even 10 minutes a day can help strengthen focus.

2. Use a Structured Learning Method

Apps like Simply Piano, Flowkey, or Yousician are great for beginners. They guide you through step-by-step lessons without overwhelming you.

3. Set Micro Goals

Instead of saying, “I want to be a great pianist,” set small, achievable goals:

🎹 Learn one new song every two weeks

🎹 Master one hand at a time before combining

🎹 Play along with a metronome to build timing skills

4. Track Your Progress

After 6 months, take note of how much your ability to concentrate has improved. Are you staying focused longer at work or school? Do you find it easier to complete tasks without distractions?

Chances are, the answer will be a big YES.

Final Thoughts: Your Brain Will Thank You

The piano isn’t just an instrument—it’s a focus-enhancing tool. If you’re looking to boost concentration, ignore distractions, and train your brain to stay on task, learning the piano for just six months can make a massive difference.