Why Music?
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Other than for the joy? The inherent beauty? The ability to bring a smile to performers and audience members alike?
We believe that providing a child with the opportunity to build a foundation of musical skills, coupled with the strength of a mentoring relationship, helps foster confidence and build a competency set that will serve them well both in and out of the classroom. The SMP after school program addresses the need for students to receive this opportunity.
“This program is transformational and needed in our communities…it is opening doors that have too long been shut.”
Learning how to play an instrument and read music is an ideal environment for the application of practical skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving strategies, persistence and collaboration. When a student works on a new piece of music, they look for embedded instructions and for sequences and patterns.
They learn to think critically by breaking down complicated sections into understandable chunks and working their way through difficult passages. Perseverance leads to accomplishment. With ensemble music, other skills such as collaboration, active listening and leadership skills emerge. "SMP was a lot of fun. My tutor helped me a lot and acted like a big sister to me. When I got to middle school, I felt prepared. SMP is not just about the music - it's also about gaining confidence!"
Research confirms that students who study music fare better in school - and in life. By way of example, a 2012 NEA study showed that students who have access to the arts in or out of school do better academically and become more active and engaged citizens. These results are particularly true within lower socio-economic groups.
“I love to see the students looking so proud as they walk through the halls with their instruments. SMP opens up so many opportunities that our students otherwise would never have.”
Similarly, studies have shown that music and arts education help high-risk students stay in school. And brain research shows not only that music improves skills in math and reading, but that it promotes creativity, social development, personality adjustment, and self-worth.
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