The Case for Early Morning Piano Lessons and Practice

By Keith Phillips*

Taking piano lessons in the morning can absolutely be an optimal time to stimulate the brain. In fact, it's supported by both neuroscience and music education research. Waking up the whole brain (according to MRI studies) can prepare you for anything the day throws at you.

Here’s why:

🎹 Why Morning Piano Lessons Are Great for Brain Stimulation

✅ 1. The Brain Is Fresh

After a good night’s sleep, your brain is in peak form for learning.
Memory consolidation during sleep helps you better retain what you learn in the morning.

✅ 2. Boosts Executive Function

Piano lessons engage working memory, focus, auditory processing, and fine motor skills—all critical cognitive domains.
Practicing early enhances those functions and can make you sharper for tasks the rest of the day.

✅ 3. Enhances Mood and Motivation

Music releases dopamine, a feel-good neurotransmitter that also improves motivation and attention.
Starting the day with this kind of positive mental engagement can boost productivity in other areas too.

✅ 4. Builds Routine and Discipline

Morning lessons help solidify habit-building. You're less likely to skip or be distracted by other obligations.

✅ 5. Supports Long-Term Cognitive Health

Musical training early in the day helps reinforce neural pathways associated with language, math, and emotional regulation—especially beneficial for children.


🧠 Especially for Kids and Students

Morning music lessons can lead to:

Better academic performance
Improved attention span
Stronger emotional resilience


⚠️ Caveat:
Some people (especially teens or night owls) are slow to warm up in the early hours. If that's the case, a mid-morning slot (like 9–10am) might be ideal rather than super early.


Bottom Line:
Morning piano lessons aren't just okay—they’re often optimal for brain stimulation, learning, and overall cognitive development.

*This article was written with the assist of chatgpt.