The Importance of a Music Education

Learning music enhances the development of the mind in that it promotes strong cognitive skills, logical thought patterns, discipline and creativity. A music education causes a student to meet challenges whether it's mastering an instrument, singing, reading or writing music. Based on how the student approaches the challenge determines the outcome of it. For instance, the student must examine the challenge in order to determine how to persevere successfully. This raises the conscious awareness of the student and puts the student in a position to solve a problem or overcome an obstacle thus strengthening cognitive skills.

Once the challenge has been analyzed, the student must rationalize as to how to solve the problem or overcome the obstacle, which encourages logical thought patterns. Once this is done, a consistent course of study or regular practice patterns must take place in order to master the challenge, which gives the student solid discipline skills. After the challenge is mastered, the student is equipped to repeat the process for the next musical challenge.

By Darshell DuBose-Smith

Music Education Is Gaining Strength Once Again

For centuries, melodies have been a source for soothing the soul, celebrations, and to excite the senses and stir emotions. Music has the ability to create ideas, inspire notions, or focus thoughts. Research of late supports the effects of music on the brain and how individuals learn. Educational institutions, most notably public and private schools, are suffering to some extent from the lack of this fine art.

The past three decades have shown incredible decreases in the number of music programs currently active in schools across the country. So much has the decline occurred, that it has caught the attention of the public at large. Fortunately, there are those within the education business who are working to increase the awareness of music education and its importance for all students.

It has been touted for a few decades that students must be tested more thoroughly in order to determine their education level. Additionally, this was to expose areas of weakness or show where any respective student needs to improve. In the process, fine arts programs took a serious hit. While the large portion of program closings were due to budget shortfalls, the program suffered also due to a lack of interest.