Why Music Must be Kept in Schools

It seems sad to say that even more nowadays than in the past, school districts are making drastic cutbacks in certain departments in order to keep other departments going. One big cutback in schools nationwide has been the music program. This, in my eyes, is a horrible injustice to students. It's especially sad when at times the school's don't target extra-curricular programs first, which are not essential to students like the music program is. Below are several reasons why music needs to stay in our schools. It doesn't matter if it's vocal or instrumental, these programs are important to producing healthy adults of the future.

Music is the ultimate inspiration for some. I'm not just stating those who play or sing, but those who listen. There is absolutely no way to deny this fact. Music is an expression - just like a painter and their canvas or a writer and their words. It's a release. While it's perfectly understandable that programs have to be cut due to the ever rising budgets for schools and the reluctance for the tax payers to vote positively, there must be some other alternative to cutting out music. People often mistake music as a hobby, however, there is a lot (and I emphasize on a lot) of work, dedication and time that is invested in these music programs. Sure, it's a fair shot in the dark to state that sports is an outlet too, but it doesn't fully stimulate the mind like music can and does for many.

If you or anyone you know has been a part of the music program in a school, then you know what I'm talking about next. These groups, both band and choir, again, are like tight-knit families when you observe them. They work together, often times spend numerous hours together to improve and most often these kids also help each other out if there's a problem. It's a feeling of belonging. They don't ask for respect and receive it in abundance. It is not like sports tend to be in that way, if you think about it. Ask any student you know about morning announcements. What does the school emphasize more on? Sports? They announce the scores, who did this wonderfully and how well they played. When was the last time you heard how excellent the choir did performing? You don't - and that is still considered academic. Unfortunately, it isn't for some anymore.

Everyone also knows that if a child has a hobby, then they are less likely to fall into bad influences. Yes, you can say this is true for sports, however, it's also more likely (and reknown) that sports players tend to get a little wild and party. Even in small towns, yes. I remember hearing half a football team being suspended for alcohol and smoking while underage. Somehow, this enraged the town. I could not understand why the town was so angry with the football team being 'punished' but when the town was threatened to lose the music program everyone said, "well if something has to go.."

Not every child is cut out for sports. This is a known fact. Some can't afford the gear, the time after school or the means to get to or from practices. Music classes and band rehearsals happen during the school day. It's considered a class. At least it is until it eventually is cut back. Yes, there is the dreaded rental of a musical instrument for the year if the child is into that music, but if not, there's always choir and that costs nothing. The music teacher is paid for teaching music theories along with how to play or sing. So there's no real budget there. Music doesn't tend to damage children as sports have a tendancy to do unintentionally. Yes, there's the freak muscle cramp from fingers working, but generally nothing as drastic as a torn ligament from a bad fall in a game. Music provides kids with an outlet and safehaven, of sorts, as odd as that sounds.

Music encourages thoughts and visualizations, along with feelings. These can inspire students in the future to go out in the world and make an impact. Music that is taught in school is harmless, but, worthwhile. What people don't see is how it inspires. Sure, they may not go out into the world and be a broadway star or record breaking singer, however what IS taught in these classes is way beyond just playing pretty songs. It's about working hard, sticking to your practicing and patience. These are provided for to students in classes that have music. Those that do not have these classes have no way outside of extra-curricular activities to learn patience.

Many people feel that music is the right area that needs to be cut for budget reasons. However, if you approached them about cutbacks on the sports programs, the first ones they'll cut are the girl's sports (Just as wrong as cutting music) to provide for other things. What needs to happen is IF cutbacks are needed, make them where they don't hurt the students. Because taking away a music program is actually hurting those who love to perform.