Reasons Why
- State standards of California Education Code requires music education in our public schools
- Scientific data has proven that nearly 70 percent of young children will “show spatial improvement as a result of musical education”
- High school students hold higher grade point averages than non-musicians in the same schools
- The inclusion of music in reading programs result in a dramatic rise in reading test scores
- Children who received piano/keyboard training performed 34% higher on tests measuring spatial-temporal ability than others
- Students who participated in keyboard lessons scored higher in math and history than students who did not
- Music and music education majors at a medium-sized university scored higher on reading tests than students in any other major
Testimonials from children, schools and musicians
“Music has taken me many places. I have made friends that I never would have made without playing music.
The band environment at school is a great place to hang out even when we aren’t playing because we have
the same interests. I have a lot of fun practicing, even though I probably drive my neighbors crazy. I have a
lot of fun playing concerts and in talent shows. It is great to get together with friends and plan and practice
for a show. I am glad music came into my life.“
- Morgan, 12 years old
I play the alto saxophone. I have made a lot of new friends through being in the band. One of my friends
ends up being a close neighbor I didn’t know I had. I got into playing the alto saxophone because I like
the sound and I enjoy playing it. I like learning new tunes and patterns. I look ahead to improving my skills
and being a better player.
- Kendall, 11 years old
My name is Eli Barnes and I am 11 years old. I’ve been playing music since I was one, when my Uncle got a
drum set. My dad though has always helped me with my music. Next year I’ll be playing in the band at
Balboa Middle School. I’m going to take percussion. I have more than one feeling about music. I play music
when I’m angry, sad, and happy. I love singing, playing guitar, and playing the drums. The reason I love music
is it makes me happy no matter what mood I’m in.
- Eli, 11 years old
