Microtone Music Notes

I found a timely and interesting article by Callista Gingrich, wife of the former House Speaker. No politics here, just some thoughts about the place music should have in our schools. Pretty refreshing, actually.

Follow up:

MUSIC NEEDED IN OUR SCHOOLS / by Callista L. Gingrich

Music is a vital part of a complete education. Today, unfortunately, many school districts are threatening to cut or eliminate entire music programs.

Music education has many benefits. It teaches discipline, character, teamwork, and self-expressions. Many studies suggest a strong concceection between music and academic achievement. In fact, early music education helps develop areas of the brain involved in language and mathematics (emphasis added).

Much of our American heritage is preserved through music. As we listen to ragtime, blues, jazz, country, rock and rap, we are reminded of the diverse experience of America.

Music unites us as it cuts across cultural barriers and opens us to new worlds of artistic expression. At a time when our country is divided, why would we eliminate a vehicle that fosters understanding?

Music is integral to our religious experience. From traditional hymns, to Renaissance motets, to African-American spirituals, music joyfully supports prayer and worship.

Music has the power to change and enhance our lives permanently. Many of my formative experiences have been related diectly to the study and performance of music. As a young person, I played the piano and the French horn, and sang in a variety of choirs.

For me, music always has been a source of great joy and inspiration.

Today, I still enjoy playing the piano, playing my French horn with the City of Fairfax (Va.) Band, and singing with the choir of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Imnmaculate Conception. Music is a lifetime gift.

To eliminate music from our schools is to diminish a large part of our cultural experience. If we need to save money, let's cut administrative overhead and other unnecessary spending.

Together we can work to support music education in our nation's schools and preserve our cultural identity.

For another fascinating perspective, check out this quote from Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, creator of the Suzuki Method of Music Pedagogy. Much of Kindermusik's ethos and aesthetic is reflective of Dr. Suzuki's point of view.