Music was integral part of learning for every child in America for decades. Classrooms featured pianos and learning songs made school a fun place to be. Many students looked forward to showing off their talents and performing in concerts. Yet the trend seems to be reversing, with music education not as appreciated as it used to be. Before music is condemned and removed from schools on the basis of its supposed costs it is important to know that music makes the education system more well-rounded and relevant for the student. Rather than making excuses about what music education is taking away, it is important for us to understand what music education provides.
Here are 8 things every music teacher wants you to understand:
1. Music is an outlet for creativity and self-expression
Every music teacher would want you to know that exposing students to weekly music lessons, choir rehearsals, music classes and opportunities for creative movement prompts delight for students and staff alike. It is delightful to see students dance around the room without any shyness and singing along with their favorite song in a voice that is clear and strong. Even if it is out of tune, music offers you laughter and powerful moments of expressing your creativity and inner self.
2. Music is a tool for self-discipline
Music education provides much more than an opportunity to express one’s self, it also instills self-discipline. Students who practice their musical instruments each day are able to develop similar habits when it comes to other subjects as well. Discipline that is learned through the desire to be great at something also increases the student’s organizational skills.
3. Music is a uniting force
Another thing music does is build teamwork. Music is a uniting force. This is why choristers and band members learn to understand the importance of being a reliable member of a group. Music helps to educate people on the importance of being a team player, rather than only focusing on the benefits of being the star.
4. Music promotes responsibility
If you are the only the only bass player in a school, then you quickly learn and understand why you have to show up for rehearsals and deliver. You understand that people count on you and your strength helps every other member of the band. Music prompts students to accept responsibility and meet their commitments.
5. Music promotes self-esteem
There are kids who don’t excel academically but can find a sense of purpose and enjoyment in making music. Music offers students the opportunity to shine when they may not achieve highly in other academic subjects. In doing so, music education can make schools more inclusive and serve to build a child’s self-esteem.
6. Music is beneficial to the community
Music education doesn’t only benefit the child or the student, it also benefits their community. Music education benefits bands, church choirs, and local theaters. Such rich benefits add to the cultural life of the student’s community.
7. Music boosts a student’s cognitive ability
Scientists have learned that improving your ability to read music or play a musical instrument improves your cognitive ability. Music helps the student excel at problem-solving, analysis, and evaluation.
8. Music is universal
Good music can be found everywhere as the language of music is universal. Music is a hugely profitable international industry that intersects with many other fields and industries. Hence, students may use their education to foster a rewarding career in music. Regardless, learning music can create a sense of pride and accomplishment in a student that can last a lifetime. With music you can pursue excellence, self-worth and personal profit- as well as enjoying the opportunity to learn a universal language.
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