by Gandara Gallishaw

Created on: July 08, 2009   Last Updated: July 09, 2009

Music education in schools is a rapidly diminishing course offered. Most young children these days have few opportunities to learn a musical instrument while in school. Some children will never be able to benefit from learning on a whole new scale. Learning a musical instrument opens children's mind to learning in a different way. When learning a musical instrument your brain works in different areas other than the standard reading, writing, and math areas. Children are able to examine their everyday work in a different light.

Learning an instrument allows a child an outlet for self expression. Where many children turn to violence or other non constructive forms of expression, a child with a musical background has the option to sit and play rather than resorting to violent or dangerous acts.

There are so many different musical styles, that a person isn't confined to one set genre. Children can develop interests in different areas of music, all offering their own unique outlook. Children who begin to learn a musical instrument or become associated with music in any form at an early age develop their motor skills and develop as a person more rapidly.

Music is ubiquitous, it's found while driving in the car or walking down the street. Music can turn up while clapping your hands or tapping your feet. Children are exposed to music in their everyday lives, and if given the opportunity they can harness it and develop an interest in what they are hearing.

Children and adults alike find that they can express themselves through music. Be it through the soothing sounds of jazz or through the heart pounding sounds of an electric guitar accompanied by drums, they find the comfort they are seeking in the sounds.

So why is it that many schools are losing funding for their music programs? Is it because some feel that music is not a valuable asset to children's learning? Is it because they feel music is not a logical career choice and time shouldn't be wasted on something so miniscule? What they may not realize is that by learning an instrument or learning about music in general doesn't necessarily mean their child wants to delve into a music career. It simply broadens their horizons and opens up new opportunities for them.

Music needs to continue to be taught in schools and in the home. Children need to continue to have chances to be exposed to music in all of its forms.

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