Day 9: Music Education Access

| CHALLENGE | DAY 1 | DAY 2 | DAY 3 | DAY 4 | DAY 5 | DAY 6 | DAY 7 | DAY 8 | DAY 9 | DAY 10 |

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Music is not just a form of art; it’s a powerful tool that enriches lives, fosters creativity, and stimulates cognitive development. It allows students to develop skills they can use for the rest of their lives. However, not all students have access to music education and the mental and emotional benefits that it can provide. Ensuring equitable access to music education is important and it’s critical for students to see diverse voices represented in their music curriculum.

Music education has been linked to improved cognitive skills in students. Learning to read music, play an instrument, or sing enhances memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities. Studies have shown that students who engage with music tend to perform better in mathematics and language arts.

It provides a unique outlet for emotional expression. Students are able to channel their feelings, whether joy, sadness, or anger, into a creative and constructive form. This emotional release can be especially important during the turbulent teenage years.

Numerous studies suggest that students involved in music programs tend to have higher standardized test scores and better academic performance. Music fosters discipline, time management, and perseverance—all qualities that are beneficial in all areas of life.

Music also provides a platform for students to build confidence and self-esteem. Whether performing in front of an audience or mastering a challenging piece, students gain a sense of accomplishment and self-worth through their musical endeavors.

Music has the remarkable ability to reduce stress and anxiety. Playing or listening to music can be a healthy coping mechanism for students dealing with the pressures of academics and adolescence.

Participating in a school band or choir requires students to work together as a team. This collaborative experience teaches them valuable interpersonal skills, including cooperation, communication, and compromise.

Music is a reflection of culture and history. Access to music education exposes students to a rich tapestry of musical traditions from around the world. This helps them appreciate diversity, connect with their heritage, and develop a global perspective.

Music is a universal language that transcends boundaries and enriches lives. Access to music education for students is not just about creating the next generation of professional musicians; it’s about nurturing well-rounded individuals who are better equipped to navigate the challenges of life. The cognitive, emotional, and social benefits of music cannot be overstated. As parents, educators, and policymakers, it is our responsibility to ensure that every student has the opportunity to experience the transformative power of music. By doing so, we are not only enriching their lives but also investing in a brighter and more harmonious future for all.

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IF YOU HAVE…

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5 Minutes	and	10 Minutes	and	45 Minutes
	and		and
CHECK OUT THIS ARTICLE that explores the historical roots of denying Black musicians their royalties, tracing back to the legacy of slavery.	and	CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO of Hanif Willis-Abdurraqib paying tribute to the memory of Prince via poetry.	and	CHECK OUT THIS PODCAST that “confronts power from every angle – from the power the genre wields over its artists, to the power plays that its rulebreakers take in order to get heard.”

 

Additional resources:

Glossary

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TAKE ACTION

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• Attend a performance at a local venue or by a local artist of color; purchase music by a local musician of color.
• Advocate for additional funding for music education at your local school board meeting.
• Share the 2023 Equity for All playlist with 3 friends.

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REFLECT

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Take a moment to reflect today’s challenge and any insights you experienced.

• Download and complete the full Racial Justice Challenge Reflection template here.
  • Questions to consider:
    • What feelings or emotions did I notice while completing today’s challenge?
    • What did I learn? (This could be a new concept, idea, or word.)
    • Why is this topic/subject important?
    • What behaviors and beliefs do I want to let go of?
• Consider sharing any parts of this challenge with a friend or group to help deepen your understanding of the information.
• Join us Friday, 9/29 at noon via Zoom for a Week 2 debrief session.

  Meeting link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84927226372?pwd=MFV6dDgrOTVGSFhGYm9UWWZ5UWFHZz09

  Meeting ID: 849 2722 6372

  Passcode: letmein

• Continue the conversation online and connect with others by joining our Racial & Social Justice Facebook group.

Just joining the Racial Justice Challenge? Register and find the previous days here. Please take the pre-challenge survey – it will help prepare your mind and body to dive into these racial and social topics and provide us valuable feedback for future challenges.

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Racial Equity work is consistently underfunded. Make a powerful statement in the fight for racial and social justice. Your contribution directly supports initiatives that promote equality, combat discrimination, and empower individuals and communities. Together, we can create a more inclusive and just world for all. Join us in making a difference today!

SUPPORT THIS WORK

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Special thanks to our mission partners

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If you would like to learn more about partnering with YWCA Spokane in support of this Racial Justice Challenge, please contact Erica Schreiber, Director of Community Engagement via email ericas@ywcaspokane.org or via phone at 509-789-8275.

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| CHALLENGE | DAY 1 | DAY 2 | DAY 3 | DAY 4 | DAY 5 | DAY 6 | DAY 7 | DAY 8 | DAY 9 | DAY 10 |