MUSIC IN OUR SCHOOLS MONTH®
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MUSIC IN OUR SCHOOLS MONTH®
Each year during the entire month of March, we celebrate Music in Our Schools Month® (MIOSM®). This harmonic celebration celebrates music education and highlights the importance of providing music to students. The celebration showcases concerts, performances and the impact music has on the community!
#MusicInOurSchoolsMonth
We all know that music can sooth the soul. But did you know that music actually helps the brain develop? From boosting test scores to teaching students how to work as a team, music plays an important role in overall academic success.
Neuroscientists have discovered when students listen to music, every part of their brain engages. Auditory, visual and motor skills become prominent because the brain accesses the ability to plan, focus and multitask. In fact, students who play instruments are said to give their brain enough exercise that is equivalent to a full-body workout.
Students who read music are actually performing mathematical calculations that require fractions, ratios, and values to be implemented while playing because reading sheet music is about counting notes. Music also allows students to express emotions, such as joy, sadness, triumph, without needing to find words. That expression helps students identify changes in tone, which helps with reading and comprehension.
MUSIC IN OUR SCHOOLS MONTH CELEBRATION IDEAS
Supporting Music in Our Schools Month is the perfect way for parents to flex their muscles through support for music in schools. This day isn't just about attending one concert; it’s about showing the school, the teachers, and the kids that music is a priority. Here is how you can support this wonderful cause:
Send a handwritten note (or email) to your child's music teacher. Many music teachers move between multiple schools and work long hours; a little recognition goes a long way.
Volunteer to help move instruments for the next concert. Physical help is just as important as financial support!
Show up and cheer loud! Attend the school board meeting in March. Just being there showcasing your support for music in schools will encourage decision-makers that the community is watching.
Talk to your child(ren) about their music class. Ask about what the concepts are and let them explain their lesson to you!
Encourage your child to perform their current music lesson for the family. Bring snacks and give a standing ovation! This will boost the morale of your child and show that their musical education is important, too!
Donate an old instrument you may have. Some students can't afford to buy or rent an instruments, which often turns them away from participating in band. Your donation could be a gift for someone!
Share videos of your child practicing (with their permission!) and start a conversation about the importance of music in the school system on social media using the hashtag #MIOSM and #MusicInOurSchoolsMonth.
HISTORY BEHIND MUSIC IN OUR SCHOOLS MONTH®
Music in Our Schools Month® initially stated as day in 1973 when the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) wanted to show the importance of music in the school system. Due to popularity, the day went national in 1975. By 1977, teachers were having so much fun that they asked for more time to prepare and showcase their students, so it was expanded to Music in Our Schools Week. Finally, in 1985, the celebration was changed to an entire month.