Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent. Victor Hugo
Music may achieve the highest of all mission: she may be a bond between nations, races, and states, who are strangers in many ways; she may unite what is disunited and bring peace to what is hostile. Dr. Max Bendiner
FACT: The schools that produced the highest academic achievement in the United States today are spending 20% to 30% of the day on the arts, with special emphasis on music. International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IAEEA) Test, 1988
All music class students are expected to participate in music classes to the best of their ability. Making a strong effort is what is important. Lessons in music are designed to meet the Massachusetts Frameworks for music and proceed in a sequential order from K - 4th grade. Students are exposed to music of various time periods and styles. Students learn about basic music concepts through the Kodaly method of teaching music. Grades are given following the description in the Elementary School report card. Students In grades 4 at South Elementary are invited to join the chorus at school if they choose to do so. Once they have made the commitment, they are expected to participate through the concert.
This is why I teach music:
Not because I expect you to major in music Not because I expect you to sing or play all your life Not so you can relax Not so you can have fun But, so you will be human So you will recognize beauty So you will be sensitive So you will be closer to an infinite beyond this world So you will have something to cling to So you will have more love, compassion, gentleness, good - in short more life. Of what value will it be to make a prosperous living unless you know how to live? -Anonymous
(I found this on the blog of another music teacher and I really think it says so much about why I do what I do.)