Research shows piano students are better equipped to comprehend mathematical and scientific concepts. Pre-schoolers were divided into three groups: One group received private piano keyboard lessons and singing lessons. A second group received private computer lessons. The third group received no training. The children who received piano/keyboard training performed 34% higher than the others – even those who received computer training –  on tests measuring spatial-temporal ability. “Spatial-temporal” is proportional reasoning – ratios, fractions, proportions and thinking in space and time. This concept has long been considered a major obstacle in the teaching of elementary math and science.

Reference: Neurological Research February 28, 1997.