In order to establish a framework within which to consider the importance of music in education, it is necessary to consider what is important, and true about music. Music is a basic function of human existence, arising from the physiological, psychological, and sociological needs of human kind. As such, the value of musical pursuit derives not only from the endeavor to achieve the highest forms of the musical art according to socially accepted norms, but also from the everyday musical encounters of every person. To this end, music is a necessary, life-enhancing experience which should be nurtured in all individuals, not only in those gifted with musical aptitude.
Music is an invariant.
It has been present in all cultures, at all times, and throughout the known historical development of the human species, facilitating emotional, physical, and social expression. Music satisfies the human need for aesthetic enjoyment, provides for communication of cultural ideals, integrates, and enculturates. It serves as both a reflection of, and a catalyst for sociological and technological growth. Music is both art and science. As an art, it manifests itself as the result of a creative process and of performance skill, in both cases requiring practice and refinement.