Growing up learning music has left a mark in my heart, and my brain, forming the person I am today. Denying anyone the opportunity to learn music is denying them from tapping into one of the primal creative instincts our brains have. Music is one of the most influential pieces of learning. Music classes link skills and abilities together that heighten numerous other skills.

Learning music is like learning another language. The knowledge gained by learning the basics of reading music is incredible. Add playing a specific instrument, and the brain gains a completely new level of intelligence. Many skills develop when learning to play an instrument. Starting to learn music at a young age boosts brain power dramatically. Studies show that on average, students who learn music performance, whether choral or instrumental score higher on tests. While learning music, memory and coordination improve, language and reasoning develop,creativity and self-confidence grow, and discipline is learned.

Without the proper music programs in schools, students lose a great opportunity to better themselves. Being a part of a music or band program creates a world of opportunities. Not only does one work on a number of individual skills, but teamwork and cooperation skills skyrocket. A sense of commitment and family rises out of a band or choir program. Creating this knowledge at a young age helps the students keep these skills well into their futures.

Sometimes I think about what my life would have been like without music, without my flute, and without my band family. It's actually really upsetting to imagine that people all over the world, and even our country don't get the opportunities I have. Music is universal, everyone understands it. It is a way to connect and communicate with people of all ages, cultures and languages. Teaching the future leaders of the world these abilities will help us all grow as a whole. The community benefits greatly from the presence of music. Students grow with each year of learning music, and the community gets the opportunity to see the talents of the students grow while enjoying some great music.

So I would like to thank all of the people who help keep music programs afloat. Parents, teachers, and all music lovers have made it their mission to allow students of all ages to pursue a musical pathway. I was thankful in my community to have several inspirational groups of people. My band director helped me grow as a person and a musician and proved that music is a key part of life. Organizations that help keep music programs afloat in small towns are incredible saviors. The David P. Markiewicz foundation formed after the loss of a passionate musician in my community. This foundation has raised thousands of dollars to help music in communities. Their donations have helped students of all ages, and several different band programs continue their learning and passion for music. Thank you to the Markiewicz family, and all other people who support music in schools.

Music is such an essential part of our lives, and pushing the importance of it in schools and the community is the only way to give everyone the opportunity to experience the joys of it.