Why Learn to Play Music?

Music education is a path to life-long learning and knowledge of self and culture. Music education facilitates student academic achievement:
*Improves recall and retention of verbal information
*Advances math achievement
*Boost reading and English language arts skills
* Increases average SAT scores
* Students indicate that arts participation motivates them to stay in school,and the arts create a supportive environment that promotes constructive acceptance of criticism and one in which it is safe to take risks.
*A Columbia University study revealed that students in the arts are found to be more cooperative with teachers and peers, more self-confident and better able to express their ideas.
* The skills gained through sequential music instruction including discipline and the the ability to analyze, solve problems, communicate and work cooperatively are vital for success in the 21st century workplace.
* According to a 2008 report, employers identify creativity as one of the top five skills important for success in the workforce. (Lichtenberg, Woock, & Wright, 2008)
(From Support Music .com)