ABSTRACT Purpose This study investigated the effect of music education on the repertoire of school skills in children submitted and not to music education. Methods The study sample was composed of 80 children aged 8-12 years, of both genders, divided into two groups: 40 students submitted to music education (experimental) and 40 students not submitted to music education (control). Data were collected using the Social Skills Rating System (SSRS-BR) and the School Performance Test (SPT) questionnaire. The results were submitted to statistical analysis (paired sample t-test and repeated measures ANOVA) at a 5% significance level. Results Results showed statistically significant difference between the groups, evidencing improvement in school performance and academic competence in the children submitted to music education. Conclusion The benefit brought by musical learning associated with different areas of education and health is of great relevance, representing an effective strategy in inclusive practice and promotion of physical and mental health in children.