LETTER: Recognizing the value of teaching music and the arts in education

Published 9:00 am Monday, March 18, 2024

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To the Editor:

As the world continues to evolve and technology becomes increasingly prevalent in our daily lives, it is more important than ever to recognize the value of teaching music and the arts in education. Exposure to music and the arts can have a positive impact on cognitive development, academic performance, and emotional well-being.

Music education helps students develop important skills such as creativity, critical thinking, and empathy. By learning to play an instrument, students not only develop their musical abilities but also improve their ability to problem-solve, think critically, and work collaboratively with others. Additionally, music has been shown to have a positive impact on emotional well-being, reducing stress and anxiety and increasing feelings of happiness and relaxation.

Despite the numerous benefits of music education, there has been a concerning trend of schools cutting funding for music and arts programs in recent years. As schools face budget constraints and pressure to focus on standardized testing, the arts are often seen as expendable. This siege on the arts is detrimental to students’ overall education and development.

It is time for us to prioritize the importance of teaching music and ensure that every student has access to a quality music education. By investing in music programs, we are investing in the future of our youth and helping them develop the skills they need to succeed in an ever-changing world.

In conclusion, teaching music is not just about learning notes and rhythms. It is about nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and empathy in our youth. It is time for us to recognize the value of music education and ensure that it remains a fundamental part of every student’s education. The benefits of music education are vast and far-reaching, and we must do everything in our power to protect and promote the arts for the betterment of our society as a whole.

John Allsbrook

Franklin