On music programs in the Bay Area

Fall is in the air. Yesterday I saw a young student on the way to school carrying a large musical instrument case. In a heartbeat I was transported back to Lindbergh Elementary, in my home town, where in 4th grade I carried my saxophone to and from school, beginning a lifelong love of music. That year I was introduced to my music teacher who for the next nine years would guide us students each band period to excel in making music. We benefited from his passion for music, and his love and no nonsense approach for his students, that we might catch the beautiful creativeness of the arts.

Without a doubt, reading, writing and math are essential to a quality education. To that point, research studies have demonstrated how including music education in a child's life helps them to do well in school, developing confidence and self-discipline, creativity, a sense of accomplishment and openness to other cultures and their music. Playing instruments, I learned how to be part of a team, from concerts to half time shows, parades to jazz ensembles. We learned how to work toward goals and accomplish hard things. Music united us in purpose much like an athletic team might under the guidance of a coach, but giving our minds and hearts to the music and the audience.

Musicians of every genre speak of music as an expression of our humanity. Famed violinist Joshua Bell recently spoke after a New York performance that "Music is something that should be a part of everyone's life." I agree. Can we in the Bay Area, as a people of great cultures and beliefs, in an economic and technical hub, not pay attention to the need for music in our children’s lives? Join me this fall to encourage music students, their teachers and administrators, and school music programs to continue to thrive, not just survive.

So leave your windows open as that young student next door practices with all the excitement of a virtuoso, even as he or she hits a few wrong notes. Or maybe wave encouragement to that student with that over-sized case on their way to school and to new adventures through music.

With a perspective,
John