Creating original music together with others has so many personal development benefits that they are far too numerous to list here. Being involved in any kind of music is fun and helps develop character and build self esteem. However, when you're involved in the creating of new music, the benefits are taken to a much higher level. I know this from both personal experience and through seeing the results in others. 

In my childhood I suffered multiple confidence issues (too many to mention here). This included a number of speech impediments which contributed to the bullying I fell victim to. Another reason was simply that I was different to others. I didn't think or act in the way others did and though there were subjects that I excelled in I still ended up with an inferiority complex, believing that I was simply of lesser worth than others. This in turn lead to childhood depression. I say this with no exaggeration but the thing that helped me more than anything else was, and remains, music. By pouring my emotions into words and tunes I went through an ongoing healing. I even then developed a technique that cured all my speech impediments, a technique I really should share with others one day. I also learned that being different should be celebrated and is in fact an asset. A society develops from individuals who see things differently. The net result of having been through issues and managed to find a way out is that I've developed a deep empathy and understanding for others going through similar issues. The 'if I can do it then you certainly can too' mindset. 

The above are my words, below are some words from Carolyn Phillips, former executive director of the Norwalk Youth Symphony.

Music provides people with a means of self‑expression. Now that there is relative security in the basics of existence, the challenge is to make life meaningful and to reach for a higher stage of development. Everyone needs to be in touch at some time in his life with his core, with what he is and what he feels. Self-esteem is a by-product of this self‑expression.

Music study enhances teamwork skills and discipline. In order for a band to sound good, all players must work together harmoniously towards a single goal, the performance, and must commit to learning music, attending rehearsals, and practicing.

Music study enhances teamwork skills and discipline. In order for a band to develops skills that are necessary in the workplace. It focuses on “doing,” as opposed to observing, and teaches students how to perform, literally, anywhere in the world. Students learn to better communicate and cooperate with one another.!