The Importance of Music
in Our Schools

CHOIR IS A UNIQUELY AMERICAN ART FORM. SOME 15% OF THE HOUSEHOLDS IN THE UNITED STATES HAVE AT LEAST ONE PERSON INVOLVED IN A VOCAL PROGRAM IN THEIR COMMUNITY. THERE ARE MORE THAN 250,000 COMMUNITY CHOIRS IN THE UNITED STATES TODAY. THAT’S AN AMAZING STATISTIC. IT’S EVEN MORE AMAZING WHEN YOU REALIZE THAT ALL OVER THE U.S., SCHOOLS ARE CUTTING FUNDING FOR CHORAL PROGRAMS.

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tudies have shown an association between high involvement in the arts and high academic achievement. Some education experts question whether there is a cause and effect relationship between the two, but most agree arts instruction makes school more interesting for many students.  Arts can be the “hook” that makes students want to come to school, and then once the kids are in the seats, we can teach them math and reading and science.

“Arts are not a path to picking the right bubble on a standardized test,” wrote Diane Ravitch, a research professor of education at New York University “they are far more valuable than that. The self-discipline required in the arts, the joy of performance is sufficient unto itself.” Music is a language.  It is as difficult as any other foreign language children study.  It keeps the brain alive and functioning.  It teaches teamwork and dedication.   We need to fight to keep the music programs in our schools,  if for no other reason than to guide these very talented children.

The arts are not ornamental.  They are not merely good for our souls and our quality of life.  They are a smart investment that fuels economic growth and stimulates and enriches the lives of our children.  But rather than encouraging our children to perform, we are denying them the opportunity.

Our educational system  is obsessed with FCAT preparation and common core.  There is little time for other electives.  Chorus rooms throughout the public school system are being turned into lecture halls.  Tenured vocal teachers are being asked to take “early retirement”.  The fine arts are in trouble in our public schools.

Despite the fact that television is full of reality based singing shows these days, shows like X-Factor, The Voice, Glee, The Sing Off …  are entertaining millions.  Meanwhile funding for school music programs is being slashed across America.   To the bottom line mentalities that make policy, the arts are still considered frilly extras.

The Caroling Competition supports our kids and the development of their talent.  The Caroling Competition has donated more than $500,000 cash to South Florida school music programs.   Music is the future of our children and these children represent the future of our community.

Support the Caroling Competition – we provide additional funding for the choirs, that helps to keep the music programs alive in our schools.

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