Saturday, August 20, 2011

Why I teach music

Because there is more than one way to be smart.

Because real life isn't about test scores.

Because music has existed in all cultures since the dawn of humankind, and it is hardwired into our souls (or brains, if you don't believe in that sort of thing).

Because children can learn countless ways to appropriately and effectively express their feelings through the arts.

Because he may end up a gun-toting conservative and she a tree-hugging liberal, but they both smile while harmonizing on "You are my Sunshine."

Because, among other things, music is entertainment. Quality, thought-provoking entertainment makes people happy. Happy people make the world better.

Because the world would be a better place if everyone learned to truly, deeply listen.

Because some children will be inspired to take up a musical instrument, which teaches persistence, discipline, humility, and the rewards of hard work.

Because making music creates millions of new pathways in the brain.

Because making music brings families, friends, and communities closer together, helping us see each other as vulnerable, creative beings instead of roadblocks.

Because in a world of such frightening conflicts and lightning-fast change, we all need as many reminders as we can get that life is beautiful.


written on Emerald Isle, NC, to the sounds of the Atlantic Ocean

4 comments:

Kyran said...

I enjoyed this post very much! Really don't know where I'd be without those few music teachers in life.

Following for more.

Carrie Persichini said...

Very nice writing...I can easily imagine this on a motivational poster!

(This also shows that even while we teachers are not in the classroom, there is always a part of our brains thinking about our work!)

Len said...

I love your site and ideas!

producer chris young said...

Music is a vital part of our everyday life whether or not we realize it.

producer chris young