Students today are not getting an education that prepares them for the real world. To be productive citizens as adults, kids need to have a well-rounded education based in academics and the arts. The best way of ensuring this is to mandate music lessons for every student. Learning to play an instrument is a great tool for real-life instruction. It is in the best interest of students everywhere for school districts to make music education mandatory.
Learning an instrument requires a student to exercise discipline. In order to learn an instrument, a student must spend time practicing that instrument outside of the assigned class hour. This requires that the student prioritize time to practice. In many cases, the result is that students will spend less time as couch potatoes so that they can engage in the art of music. Certainly, every child could stand to be more productive.
Learning an instrument encourages memory development. Music students are required to memorize notes, scales, and different finger positions. The constant memorization involved in music not only helps students learn their prospective instruments, it also helps expand their memory in other subjects. Research has shown that students who are learning an instrument often do well in their other classes, particularly math and science courses. This proves that classical music increases intelligence.
Additionally, music education boosts self-esteem levels. Everyone knows that learning an instrument can enhance a student's sense of achievement. Although it may take years to flourish on an instrument, the challenges students face help to shape their character. After a student overcomes a challenge, he or she has something to be proud of. This process of overcoming challenges and reaping rewards can be seen in orchestra and band classes around the world. With better self-esteem, students are usually more motivated to do well in their academic subjects.
Learning an instrument encourages discipline, memory, and it boosts self-esteem. Mandatory music education would not only help students throughout their academic career, but prepare them for adulthood. The benefits of a music program far outweigh any risks that may be associated with it. The best thing that anyone could do to help this generation of students prepare for the future is to check with his or her local school district and inquire whether a music education program is in place.
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The author is probably concerned about this issue because he or she
A.
thinks academic courses are insignificant.
B.
used to participate in a marching band.
C.
cares about the well-being of students.
D.
is a former school orchestra director.