Music Education: a Key to Music and so Much More
*This article is written by local musician, performer, and high schooler Madison R..
You may not realize, but September 15th was Music Education Day.
Nowadays, music is on the rise, with more people getting involved all over the world. Music education can be seen everywhere, and takes a variety of forms, such as school programs including band and choral groups, lessons and performance-based learning, or even just teaching oneself off the internet. The question is: what for?
Learning music helps to build important life skills, both intellectually and involving one’s character development. It creates a sense of community and feelings of belonging through shared emotion and experience. Learning music also increases mental wellbeing and awareness through freedom of expression. All these things are integrated into your life with the help of music education.
Here’s what this form of education is all about.
First off, did you know that musicians can often be some of the smartest people in the world? This is because music implements high cognitive abilities, including memory, motor skills, and listening skills as well as training of the ear. Because of this, it is important that music is taught at a young age as it helps children develop these skills. But it doesn’t only build smarts, learning an instrument helps to develop a taste in music, finding out what they like and dislike. These things are part of one’s personality and character. Music helps people to realize who they want to be and what they value in a very unique way. These character traits are often expressed in music, which leads me to the next point.
You probably hear many happy and sad songs, as well as everything in between daily. Many popular artists and even the general population, use music as an emotional release. Playing an instrument is a fantastic way to release dopamine, creating positive feelings in the human brain. Writing music allows us to express our thoughts and feelings, invoking strong emotional experiences that can offer a break from this often-stressful world.
One of my favorite musicians- Jim Morrison of the Doors, quite notably used his music as a form of poetry, and it shows. A lot of musically inclined people I’ve met also quite enjoy literature and composition, Jim Morrison was one of them, as he wrote poetry outside of his career in music. I feel that one of the most important parts of music is expression and emotion. It’s always more interesting to watch and listen to a musician who feels what they’re singing or playing, which is why writing is such an important skill to learn through music education.
Freedom of speech is becoming increasingly more relevant, but it has always been relevant in music. This is a great subject matter as it refers to speaking one’s mind fully and unapologetically. This can be beneficial on many levels, not only for that dopamine release, but it also builds connection with those that hear and feel the music of others. This brings me to my final point.
Music is very well known for being a strong builder of community. Especially through performance-based education and public programs, you are almost guaranteed to meet people like minded to you. Naturally, it’s always great to associate with someone who has the same interests as you, but it’s infinitely better if that interest is music, as it incorporates so many other subjects. People who share your likes and dislikes often have similar outlooks on life to you, and if not, music can still connect us and build lasting relationships you will never forget.
Speaking from personal experience, a shared interest in music has brought my entire family closer in a variety of ways. Everyone receives a chance to share music with one another. In addition to this, I have met some of my closest friends through music, this has given me an immeasurable sense of belonging, which is truly an amazing thing.
As a grade nine student in Saskatchewan who has been involved in music lessons from a young age, I have been blessed with the ultimate opportunity through talent and interest in all things music. This could not have happened without access to a strong music education.
So many people believe that they simply cannot play an instrument or sing for so many reasons. Possibly because they think they’re just not good enough, or that it’s just not meant for them. However, through music education, anyone can learn to do whatever they’d like, from becoming an opera singer to becoming a world-class rock guitarist. And of course, already experienced individuals can continue to progress for the rest of their lives.
Music education is all around you, even where you least expect it. I would even classify just actively listening to music and paying attention to it as receiving education on it. It is extremely beneficial to human beings in so many ways. It improves wellbeing physically, emotionally, and even socially. It creates hobbies, careers, and even just a sense of home for people everywhere. I have definitely found a great deal of music that I relate to, and it allows me and many others to cope with everyday life, no matter how hard it is.
Why not experience all these things for yourself today? I promise, music education really does bring the world together.
Music education is vital to a well-rounded education, fostering creativity, discipline, and a love for the arts in our children. In support of music education in the province let’s come together and ensure that every child in Saskatchewan has the opportunity to experience the joy of music and so much more.
Let your voice be heard and write to your MLA, the Minister of Education and the leadership of the Saskatchewan School Board Association. Join the movement here!
