Music – It’s Important!
While we may not remember much about our education other than playing a recorder, you are forever affected by the impacts of music education.
Have you ever reflected on your education and said, “At least I know how to play “Hot Cross Buns” on
the recorder!”? Many people say a version of this when referring to their music education. Knowing how
to play the recorder or singing different folk songs may not show its importance directly, but rest
assured there was a purpose behind your education.
In my classroom, I have a poster that lists the generic subjects students study in school: Math, Language,
History, Reading, and Science. Highlighted in each of these subjects are letters that spell out the word
Music.
Music comes along these subjects to reinforce, deepen understanding, and connect facts in a book to a
student. Multiplication facts, a list of prepositions, dates in history can be reinforced, practiced, and
memorized in a more enjoyable way if put to music. We can metaphorically place ourselves in the shoes
of many historical figures by listening to the music that was written during the time they were alive.
Vibrations, frequencies, speed, light, anatomy, are all scientific words that have their place in the study
of music.
Music education not only helps reinforce ideas found in the general education classroom, but also
teaches character development traits needed to be successful for the rest of your life. Think back to the
time you learned to play something on the recorder like “Hot Cross Buns.” You did not just arrive to class
one day and play any song on the recorder perfectly. You had to show up, practice, work hard, polish,
and then perform in front of your class with poise and confidence. Now relate that to studying for a test.
You have to pay attention in class, do your homework, study before the test, and then take the test.
Music teaches students discipline, work ethic, prioritizing your time, and how to communicate with
other people.
Music plays a large part in who we are as people. We listen to it in the car, we sing in church, we play it
at life-changing events such as weddings and graduations. Music is all around us, so why not use it to
help your students prepare for life? (Plus, making music is really fun!) While we may not remember
much about our education other than playing a recorder, you are forever affected by the impacts of
music education.
FCS Music & Choir