Just think of the pride an American feels when The Star Spangled Banner or Stars and Stripes Forever is performed, or the goosebumps and chills one feels when the final chord of a tender ballad resolves. The idea that music is a worldwide existence, present at all times and place is such an important idea that many people forget about, which brings me to my next point. Because music is such a vital part of the human existence, it needs to be reinforced as such. Music should not be limited to just having an optional general music class in fifth grade and band or choir the following year. The sooner that we can get music into the curriculums of kindergartens and preschools all across the world, the better.
Music is a lifelong pursuit, and it needs to be taught in all levels and grades through high school.
In addition to improving the quality of life, research has shown that kids involved in music generally get better grades and are less likely to become involved in alcohol and drugs than students who are not. Although these are all great reasons for having music in schools, our responsibility as music educators goes beyond making sure that children receive music education. We need to make sure that all children are receiving the best music education possible. This can only come from the teachers. Music education requires a lot of hard work and dedication, and any teacher who doesn't have the desire or fire to help children grow and learn through music should not be in the classrooms.