My earliest childhood memories are tied to music. I was mesmerized by music at the ripe age of four.

I remember the first time I saw a piano, with 88 keys glistening in all their glory – this was the instrument I wanted to play. I followed through with this, and nearly 14 years later, piano is still my instrument.

Deciding to play an instrument is a big commitment – time-wise, financially and so on. But I promise you (and I know other musicians out there will back me up) that if you invest yourself in music, it will not be something you regret.

First, music acts as a creative outlet.

You can channel your emotions into your music, and you can use your music as a medium of expression. Over the years, as cheesy as it sounds, my piano has been with me through the brightest and darkest moments of my life. It is a comfort to know that whether or not I can put my feelings into words, I can always put them into music.

Music helps stimulate your memory.

Many studies have shown a direct correlation between playing an instrument and developing strong memory skills. Learning how to play an instrument builds on cumulative knowledge and requires a constant recall of the basics.

Music teaches you discipline, consistency and persistence.

For the majority of people out there, learning how to play an instrument is optional. Even if you're in a band or orchestra class where playing an instrument is required, choosing to do so was ultimately your personal decision. Or perhaps a better way to say it would be that, regardless of whether or not you're required to play an instrument, excelling and improving at the instrument is up to you. Music teaches you this from an early stage.

Perhaps you've heard the old joke, "How do I get to Carnegie Hall?"

"Practice, practice, practice!" (I can testify to the truth of this statement.)

In music, progress can be unpredictable, and practice can be frustrating. It's about overcoming the mental roadblocks with consistency and dedication. Developing the patience for progress in music is something that easily translates to other areas of life as well.

Music allows you to connect with others in a new way.

Meeting someone who plays the same instrument guarantees an instant bond of friendship (or rivalry)! Furthermore, sharing your music with others will allow them to appreciate the arts through you.

Lastly, learning to play an instrument is rewarding because it allows you to showcase yourself.

Whether you seek to perform for an audience or just for yourself, music embodies all the characteristics mentioned above and more – discipline, motivation, persistence and expression.