Music is the Key
I believe music should play a larger role in today’s educational system. Individual students may look at music differently; some may see the art form as a distraction and others see music as a positive influence. I personally look at music as a way to target my attention on a particular task, to get focused for a sporting event, or simply to relax.
The ability to be able to listen to music in an appropriate manner during school should be allowed in our schools because of improved study habits that are formed, increased creativity and reduced stress levels.
Parents of students that attend public high school have probably heard from their children: “We can’t listen to music in school,” or, “We can’t even listen to music during hall,” a definite problem in my eyes.
According to the National Association for Music Education, scientific studies have proven that listening to music while studying can improve memory of that specific subject. I personally can say that listening to music helps me focus while I study. In addition, I am able to accomplish more tasks and listening to music helps reduce my stress levels.
I know that most parents want what is best for their children, and I feel that if music enhances a child’s learning – and can produce better test results – then being able to listen to music should be supported.
Aside from enhancing a student’s learning, music can be used to spark creativity and express the real, deepest “you.” A quality that makes music so unique is than an individual can like or dislike a song or genre because it truly does not matter; everyone can have an opinion and listen to what he or she wants.
Different genres of music vary from folk to punk rock, from classical to country – and everything in between; music is something that cannot be taken away from the soul expressly because it is individual.
When I am trying to think of new, fresh ideas, I always turn on music – and it is as if a switch flips on and I am able to think more innovatively.
Another reason that I feel music is so beneficial is because of the power it has to reduce stress levels. There is no questions that we live in a busy world and being in high school is more stressful than one would like to believe. A full day of learning, another few hours of extra-curriculars after that, homework and then bed, it is not wonder teenagers can get crabby. However, when I am able to listen to music while I work and just relax to my tunes, I am less “high-strung.”
Granted, this may not be true for everyone, but I feel confident in saying that if we were allowed to listen to music during the school day, there would be less tension and stress in the classrooms.
Music is powerful. This art form can evoke memories, enhance learning, increase creativity and reduce stress levels. I strongly believe that music can change lives and if the students at Mountain Lake Public High School were allowed to appropriately listen to music during class time, then I feel that the school’s environment would be more positive and students’ school days would be dramatically improved.
“I think music in itself is healing. It’s an explosive expression of humanity. It’s something we are all touched by. No matter what culture we’re from, everyone loves music.” – Billy Joel