One of the most important skills that students learn while studying an instrument is discipline. It is crucial that students practice every day in order to build the muscle memory and strength to play an instrument. I see students balance school, work, vacations and sports in amazing ways in order to achieve their musical goals.
Most students encounter periods of frustration and/or periods of time when progress is slow. Music students learn how deal with these feelings and how to keep working toward a goal that seems impossible to reach. When they do reach their goals, I remind them of their struggle and of the awesome feeling they earned by sticking to the plan and working hard. This inspires them to set more goals and focus on the work, without letting frustration debilitate their practice sessions.
Musicians are creative people. But their creativity is not limited to their compositions and performances; it is developed while they are practicing. When a student becomes aware of a deficiency in her/his playing, that student uses her/his creative skills to fix the problem. Music students understand that there are always challenges and there are always solutions; problem solving is a game and a part of life.
I'm sure that other teachers and students could add pages of reasons why we should support music education programs, and I welcome these additions. Music programs have been cut across the country and many people are forced to cut their personal expenses, including music lessons.
The reason I have devoted my life to the field of music education is because I understand the importance of music education. People need to understand the short and long term benefits of studying an instrument. Music education helps to develop discipline, problem solving skills and most of all, music sounds good.
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