Today is another one near and dear to my heart- it’s buy a musical instrument day!
In my dad’s family it’s not a matter of if you are going to be in band- the only question is what instrument you were going to play. No one is forced into this- we all looked forward to the day we got to pick up our instrument of choice for the first time. And most of us have continued playing into adulthood in one form or another.
Aside from the simple enjoyment of playing music, multiple studies have shown that participating in band improves student’s graduation rates, math scores, problem solving skills, and much more.
And sure, sitting through a kid’s concert can be a lot (I should know- I just survived a 90 minute Jr/ Sr High jazz concert a few days ago). But when you take a long look at all the benefits, it’s very, very worth it to encourage the youngsters in your life to begin the path to a life of enjoyment and enrichment through the performing of music.