Changes

Not long ago I ran into a former private student.  On break from college she excitedly shared her music experiences.  I listened proudly until I heard she was a music ed major.  That's when my heart sank.  I should be happy that she wants to share her passion.  But it won't be long before she's looking for employment…and then what? 
    
I live in a district that last year, eliminated all band and orchestra classes at the elementary level.  Forty-six  elementary schools in all--just imagine how many children are impacted.  In early 2010 the district opened a community survey.  This question about elementary instrumental programs was answered only by parents who had children participating in elementary music at that time:   If a fee of $100-150 to participate in an Instrumental Music Program that meets 2-3 times per week is implemented, would your child continue to participate?  The survey results?  Yes:  1465.  No:  1833.   Underwhelming support by 44% of a small, select group.  By the time our district eliminated the classes this group had already moved up to middle school.  

Why do we need instrumental music?  I have a better question:  Why do we need high test scores in math and reading?  Sadly, it's not about our kids; though they are the ones who suffer from lost opportunities.  And in turn, our future will lack adults who can creatively problem-solve.  

I read an article today "Trimming Music Ed in the Schools is a Mistake," by Mark George, president and CEO of the Music Institute of Chicago, writing as a guest columnist in the Chicago Tribune.  "The arts provide a depth of understanding and even the basis for understanding for some children on their long road to achievement. And perhaps most important, the arts provide a way for children to envision the possibilities of a world outside of their immediate circumstances." 

I'd like to think that loss creates space for growth, change and improvement.  But my inner cynic sees little hope of ever bringing these lost classes back into the curriculum.   Lost classes strike me as lost opportunities.  I learned viola in an orchestra class in 4th grade so it's hard for me to imagine a different way.  Or a better way.  Luckily for my district there is a ray of hope.  Thanks to the perseverance of one teacher whose job was eliminated there is an alternative for many of these students:  fee-based before and after school band and orchestra classes.  It's a great start.