Those kinds of numbers are nothing to take for granted. Extensive studies have shown that music increases children's concentration, coordination, stimulation, self-confidence, creativity and poise. Involvement in music, in fact, has been shown to result in higher SAT scores. Many schools have raised their academic levels by increasing their emphasis on music and other arts. It does so much else, too.
Music cuts across cultural boundaries and binds people.
It provides an outlet for self-expression. Amongst the children at Barr, Walnut or some other Central Nebraska middle school or high school, perhaps there is a student who will follow in the footsteps of Dave Brubeck or Judy Collins, Charlie Parker or Chet Atkins. Maybe one of them will emerge like a Buddy Rich or Harry Connick Jr., a Patsy Cline or Jimmy Cliff, a Stevie Ray Vaughan or Sheryl Crow. No matter what type, no matter if it's through voice or instrument, no matter what kind of instrument, music will help these kids become more inspired people. Pete Letheby is associate editor for The Independent.