Monday, March 3, 2014

March is National Music in Our Schools Month

Music was always a part of our school curriculum and activities when I was growing up. In high school I was a member of the Bonds Wilson High School Cobras Wonder Marching Band, under the leadership of our band director, Mr. Lonnie Hamilton, III. While Mr. Hamilton was passionate about music, he was equally passionate about each band member learning, performing and being our best in music education.

Like many people, I found learning how to read and perform music helped me with other creative and developmental skills. The band was that outlet which gave me the type of discipline I needed which branched into improving my scholastic aptitude and garnering more pride in my work. Although I was a majorette during football season, we were still required to learn music and participate in the band. In addition, being a member of the Junior Choir in church was also a crucial part of my individual creative development and discipline.

Unfortunately, music programs in schools around the country are in serious danger, due to education budget cuts. I have great memories from my high school years in particular, participating in concerts, parades and festivals. It was such an exciting time and wearing our uniforms was a great honor. If our music programs are cut from the standard curriculum made available for any student desiring to learn and appreciate the theory of music, we will be losing a very valuable resource of personal development with our children.

I urge everyone, whether you’re musically inclined or not, to advocate for the art and music programs in your schools. Although I love athletics, I am convinced that music theory will go a long way for generations to come. Music is a part of every culture, locally, nationally and globally. People connect to music and the notes connect to the spirit. Think about this the next time you go to a movie and listen to the scores that someone wrote and performed. Think about music the next time you attend a play or go to a game. Think about music when you attend church worship services or a dance recital. Now, think about how it would be without music and how boring life would be.

Be sure to celebrate and support music in our schools! For more information on how you can get involved, click here and visit the National Association for Music Education website.
Music Is My Life!

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