The Science Behind Music and Learning: Why It Belongs in Every Classroom

Music does more than fill a room with sound - it builds memory, improves focus, and brings emotional balance to young minds. 

In fact, neuroscientific studies have shown that children who are actively engaged in music - whether through playing instruments, singing, or simply listening - develop stronger language skills, better mathematical reasoning, and improved concentration. That’s exactly why leading IB Syllabus Schools in Bangalore like Chaman Bhartiya School are integrating music into the very foundation of learning. 

We don’t treat music as a standalone subject at CBS - it’s a dynamic, interactive part of the learning journey from the Early Years through to the IB Diploma Programme. Our classrooms echo with rhythm and movement, and our approach to music is grounded in research, creativity, and a strong sense of purpose. 

Why Music Matters in Learning 

For Younger Learners (Early Years & Primary Grades): Music activates key areas of the developing brain - especially those linked to memory, focus, and emotional balance. At this stage, musical engagement supports auditory processing, phonemic awareness, and working memory, which are critical for building strong reading, comprehension, and communication skills. 

For Middle School Learners: As students grow, music becomes a powerful tool to explore rhythm, structure, and pattern recognition - building connections across subjects like math, science, and language. It also helps learners develop focus, collaboration, and emotional regulation, all while encouraging creative expression and confidence on stage. 

For Older Learners (High School & IB DP): In the senior years, music offers a disciplined, yet deeply personal space for inquiry and reflection. Students explore global genres, develop compositional and performance skills, and learn to analyse, create, and present music in meaningful ways. Through this, they build not only musical fluency, but also critical thinking, collaboration, and the resilience needed for leadership and life.

Music at CBS: From Early Years to Diploma 

In our Early Years programme, children begin their musical journey through movement, rhythm games, and vocal play. These sessions are designed to build listening skills, body coordination, and emotional awareness in a joyful, pressure-free environment. 

One of our signature initiatives - Whimsical Wednesdays - invites students across all grades to explore music through expression, storytelling, and performance. It’s a space where drums, keyboards, and songs come together, not only to develop musical talent, but to boost confidence and creativity. 

As students progress into higher grades, music becomes a more structured and integrated part of their academic development. And in the IB Diploma Programme (DP), music transforms into a robust, interdisciplinary subject that prepares students for careers in the arts - and beyond. 

The IB Music Module: Deep Learning Through Sound 

In the IB Diploma Programme at CBS, music goes beyond performance - it becomes a space for exploration, creativity, and critical reflection. Aligned with the global IB framework, the course is designed to shape well-rounded musicians who can think, analyse, and innovate. 

Students engage with music as researchers, creators, and performers - exploring global genres, experimenting with composition, and developing the ability to discuss and justify their creative choices. Key features of the programme include: 

- Deep listening and analysis across personal, local, and global contexts - Theoretical and hands-on experimentation with musical forms 

- Original compositions and performance proficiency 

- Entrepreneurial thinking and real-world application 

- Personalised learning pathways based on individual interests and strengths 

At higher levels, students also take on The Contemporary Music Maker component, where they collaboratively design and execute a music-based project - blending creativity, planning, and performance in real-world settings. As one of the few IB Syllabus Schools in Bangalore offering such depth in music education, CBS gives students the tools to lead with passion and purpose - on stage and beyond.

‍