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Music education has unexpected benefits
When parents purchase an instrument for their son or daughter to play, hoping that it is worth the expense that they have incurred, they may not realize the true benefits that learning to play that instrument provides.
According to Children's Music Workshop, www.childrensmusicworkshop.com, there are many benefits for students who receive a musical education.
"Experts have proven that music education not only enhances a child's academic performance in math and science, it also engenders teamwork, communication and other social skills that are critical to success as an adult. And a long list of facts and figures show music's positive impact on children and society at large -- including higher SATs, higher IQs and lower dropout rates," the online statement said.
USD 234 Orchestra teacher Jane Williams said that children who obtain a musical education have a greater chance of achieving success in school and after school.
"Playing a string instrument is not an easy task," Williams said. "It is a skill learned over a long period of time. Patience, dedication, and a strong work ethic are needed to become a successful string player. Ask a CEO what they are looking for in an employee and they say they need people who understand teamwork, people who are disciplined, and people who understand the big picture. You know what they need? They need musicians."
According to the Journal of Research in Music Education, students who receive an education in some type of music program will accomplish higher results on standardized tests.
"Students in high-quality school music programs score higher on standardized tests compared to students in schools with deficient music education programs, regardless of the socioeconomic level of the school or school district. Students in top-quality music programs scored 22 percent better in English and 20 percent better in math than students in deficient music programs. Students in top-quality instrumental programs scored 19 percent higher in English than students in schools without a music program.
"Students in top quality instrumental programs scored 17 percent higher in math than children in schools without a music program. Students at schools with excellent music programs had higher English and math test scores across the country than students in schools with low-quality music programs," the article said.
Williams said that orchestra programs across the country though valuable, may be in danger. However, Fort Scott has a solid music program for its students.
"Orchestra programs around the country continue to thrive at present, but are in jeopardy because of the lack of qualified string and orchestra instructors. Fort Scott is one of the few small (class 4A and smaller) schools that is able to offer string instruction. For twenty-one years, I have taught numerous musicians in the program. USD 234 is one of the lucky school systems, which has always supported an orchestra program," she said.
According to supportmusic.com. a music education can improve the learning process for students.
"Music develops skills needed by the 21st century workforce: critical thinking, creative problem solving, effective communication, team work and more," the Web site said.
In addition, the Web site said that music keeps students interested in school making it less likely that they will drop out. It also improves the students' learning environment. Music has the ability to help students achieve success in other academic areas, the Web site said.