Music education is costly, and many teachers find fundraising as one of their primary responsibilities. The good news is that schools that prioritize music are proven to boost student achievement and engagement.
The University of Kansas researchers analyzed quantitative data from Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools as well as surveys and focus groups with current music students to establish a baseline understanding of the effects of music participation. They found that students participating in school music have higher graduation rates, higher GPAs, and fewer discipline referrals than their non-music peers.
Increased Test Scores
There is nearly universal agreement that learning music offers a variety of positive benefits to kids. However, there needs to be more agreement on how best to give kids that music education. Grants for music education are key to helping students receive the music instruction they deserve.
Schools with strong music programs enjoy higher student achievement, attendance, graduation, and test scores. Unfortunately, when budgets are tight, music is frequently one of the first subjects to be eliminated. This is a mistake, as music plays a crucial role in enhancing the left side of the brain, improving pattern recognition, and even boosting a child’s IQ. Additionally, research has shown that a student’s involvement in music is directly linked to their school engagement and academic performance, underscoring the importance of advocating for funding that sustains music programs and enables students to participate.
Organizations operate several grant programs for different academic levels to support this effort. For example, pre-kindergarten through fifth-grade students may receive an Intro to Music grant worth $22,000, including instruments and educational materials.
Increased Self-Esteem
Music has been shown to boost self-esteem in students. Whether performing with an orchestra or playing the flute in their classroom, the confidence gained through musical education is beneficial. This increased confidence can lead to a stronger work ethic, higher grade point average and a greater desire to achieve in school.
Music can also help to build social skills in students. Whether learning to play violin with a new friend or working as part of an ensemble, music allows students to interact with their peers in different ways than they would normally. This interaction can help to develop communication skills, teamwork and a greater understanding of the world around them.
As music programs continue to be cut in many schools nationwide, parents and educators must be aware of music’s positive impact on children’s lives. By educating themselves on the benefits of music, they can encourage others to support school music and make it a priority in their community.
Many grants are available for music education programs. By understanding the requirements of each assignment, teachers and administrators can optimize their chances of receiving funding. Organizations that offer grants usually prefer clear and well-written proposals that explain how the funds will benefit students. NAfME, the National Association for Music Education, has a track record of connecting schools with resources through its local chapter network. They can advise on how to write a strong application and what types of projects may be eligible for funding.
Increased Social Interaction
Students who learn music are often exposed to different cultures and musical traditions, which helps them be more empathetic toward others. They may also find themselves in group performances, which helps develop teamwork skills. In addition, music training requires a lot of memorization, which can help kids with other subjects, such as math and science.
Research shows that children who play music have a higher grade point average and better test scores than those who don’t. Moreover, they’re more civically engaged and are less likely to abuse substances. Even though many schools are cutting their arts programs due to budget cuts, private philanthropists and community members have stepped in to ensure that children can access high-quality music education.
Music educators can use grant funds to start or grow exceptional music programs that will benefit their entire student body. They can apply for grants for equipment, supplies, and professional development opportunities. The most important thing, however, is to ensure that all students can participate in music classes at their school. Instructors can work with administrators, parents, and other community members to fund the necessary resources. This will allow them to build a strong foundation for their student musicians and help them achieve their educational goals.
Increased Grade Point Average
Music education grants open new possibilities for students who cannot afford instruction otherwise. Applicants should carefully research the requirements of each assignment to optimize their chances of being awarded funding. Granting organizations look for thoughtful, well-written explanations of how the funds will benefit individuals and communities.
While many decision-makers see the value of music programs, more is needed to reverse the decline in school-based arts and music classes nationwide. As a result, programs such as the one Beutner is pushing will likely be limited in their scope and not fully sustainable.
In a study conducted by the University of Kansas, researchers found that high school students with more than one year of music participation have significantly higher grade point averages, graduation rates, ACT scores, attendance and discipline referrals when compared to their non-music peers. These results are based on quantitative data about high school music participation, student characteristics and school engagement measured by discipline referrals and attendance rates for over 6,000 Nashville public schools students.
Various organizations are jumping on the bandwagon to support these efforts by providing music education grants to needy students. This can be in the form of instruments, music experiences and even concert tickets. While this is a great step in the right direction, work still needs to be done.