What Are the Benefits of Music Programs in Schools?

Music programs are offered as part of a child's education. These programs teach students musical history and how to read music and play instruments. Music programs prepare students for success outside the classroom. But when a school district is facing budget cuts, music programs are one the curriculum's first casualties. In 1988, the National Education Longitudinal Study showed that students who participated in music programs received more honors and awards than those who did not (see References).

Creativity

Music programs, first and foremost, teach children to think creatively. There is not just one right answer when it comes to the arts; instead there are several opinions and views. And in music, there is more than one way to play a note. Through studying music, students learn to solve problems by imagining various solutions and to think outside traditional rules and assumptions. This helps them develop a sense of reasoning that assists them with problem solving.

Perseverance

Music programs teach children the value of perseverance. A mistake is a mistake and only practice and patience will help a student to perfect his technique. A flawless musical performance is only possible through hard work. Students learn the discipline needed to achieve excellence and the rewards that result from perseverance in musical performance.

Teamwork

Music also teaches children the value of teamwork. An orchestra can only sound good when students work together toward a single goal. Each player must study and learn their part, practice their instruments and attend rehearsals. If all members of the orchestra are not dedicated to the common goal, then the orchestra's overall performance will suffer, no matter the excellence of some of the players.

Risks

Anxiety and fear accompany any student when faced with the possibility of performing before peers. Musical performance teaches children how to take risks and how to deal with fear, an essential skill for a student to develop his full potential and become successful.

Self Expression

Self expression is learned through musical study. The goal of the arts is to reach beyond the basic security offered by mere existence and to make life meaningful. This challenges students to become in tune with their existence, who they are and what they feel. Through music they learn to express themselves and this security of self leads to higher self esteem, which gives students the confidence they need to tackle challenges in life and be successful.