Music in Schools

When I was younger, music was very much apart of the school curriculum. I didn't know all the politics  at the time like I do now. All I know is that we still had music. It was something to look forward to. I remember that on certain days of the week, the music teacher came to sing and teach us new songs. I continued that love of music throughout my education. I still remember many of the songs we learned - most of them very patriotic.

Music has always been a part of my life. I feel most at ease when there is music. I can't help but wonder about the kids today. While grownups fight over the cost of education (public and private), kids are the ones left behind. Arts programs seem to be the first ones cut. With no outlet to express themselves through the arts, they are stuck. And so are we in terms of not appreciating the whole child.

I guess there are those who feel that music doesn't lead to a good paying job or make your employable. I would argue it does. Music appreciation is at the core of who we are as a civilization. It is that appreciation for the creative that gets stuff invented and understood. Take me for example, I'm writing right this minute with music in the background. I couldn't imagine writing without music. For me, music is the difference between being creative/happy and struggling with expressing myself/being unhappy. Expression in some form is a big deal for us introverts.

So as I ponder a steel pan non-profit and festival, at the very core of it all is what am I doing for kids. I can't sit back and not let kids have the same opportunity I had to express themselves.  I was sitting with Elizabeth today trying to figure out the whole steel pan in the west deal. I realized that the thought of a school teaching steel pan and other forms of music is not only a public service but a public necessity. It is something that has to be done. Our kids need us to open this world up to them and most importantly keep it open.

Steel pan affords us that opportunity. The opportunity to form and strengthen community, to appreciate music, and to learn how to create. What more can you ask for? Found that cool saying at the top on the internet. Should be poster you know. Funny part is I never really considered myself a music teacher - more a music appreciator. Perhaps that is what I would help teach.