Teachers tout benefits of music in the classroom
By ANNIE DeGENOVA
POSTED: November 19, 2007
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Many educators say one thing can be certain: Whether students are learning the physical aspects of how an instrument works, adding up beats in a measure or learning how to enunciate for a vocal performance, they are learning more than just music.
Others don’t always see it that way; and that is evident as school systems across the country make budget cuts that significantly affect their fine arts programs.
Recognizing the academic benefits of music, educators in the Marshall County School System are doing just the opposite. They are putting more money into their arts programs, thanks to the generosity of the community.
“We must have our students well-educated in the arts,” said Marshall County Schools Curriculum and Instruction Director Bonnie Ritz. “We want our students to be well-equipped, and we are so blessed that our community has supported us.”
Ritz cited the numerous performing opportunities students in all of the county schools have — schools like John Marshall High School, where the Wheeling Symphony recently played two concerts, with more on the schedule.
“They were practicing and our students actually got to go in and watch them rehearse,” Ritz said. “What a great opportunity.”
She said she was thrilled when the symphony chose John Marshall’s Centre for the Performing Arts as the home for its 2007-08 Masterworks and Pops series after the closing of the Capitol Music Hall earlier this year. That announcement came shortly before the school system received a $96,000 anonymous donation to enhance its music programs.
Ritz said the donation allowed educators to move toward providing more musical and artistic opportunities, which has been one of the main focuses in their plan to improve 21st Century Learning; something Gov. Joe Manchin and state Superintendent Steven Paine have made a goal for all school systems in West Virginia.
In November 2005, Manchin announced that West Virginia would join forces with the Partnership for 21st Century Skills to ensure students in the state succeed as citizens, workers and leaders. The partnership, founded in 2002 by the U.S. Department of Education and other organizations, emphasizes information and communications technology literacy, critical thinking, global awareness, communication skills, and business, economic and civic literacy. It was founded with the understanding that changes in the business world, as well as cultural changes, are also changing the manner in which students need to be educated.
Ritz said since music and the arts incorporate prominent academic areas such as math, science and language they are a great way to educate the “whole-person.’’ She also said schools that offer bands, theater, choirs and other group arts activities are allowing students to develop interpersonal and social skills with other students who have artistic interest.
John Marshall High School music teacher Reva Icard agrees, and has been working hard to put the recent donation to good use. Part of the money was used to purchase steel drums so students could learn how to fill the halls with tropical sounds. This year, several drums were purchased, with more on the way next year so the school can form a steel drum band. Another addition to the school’s music department is a piano lab, where students and teachers can learn piano through group lessons. Icard teaches four piano classes this year, but said there is demand for more.
“The kids love it,” she said. “I am amazed at how well they do. Right now, there isn’t one that can’t sit down and play a piece of music. It’s great.”
Recently students at Cameron elementary and high schools expressed interest in adding nearly 100 courses and electives to the school’s curriculum, including music theory, piano, Appalachian folk music and art appreciation. That would accompany their already diversified program that includes numerous band, chorus, art and theater courses.
Ritz said in addition to the donation, the anonymous donor issued a “Music Challenge” grant in which Marshall County Schools have until Dec. 15 to raise $10,000 through various fundraisers. If the system is successful, the donor will give an additional $20,000 for all K-12 music programs in Marshall County. To date, more than $7,000 has been raised.
“This grant will enhance the music program in Marshall County Schools, enabling students to benefit from the various music education and performance opportunities,” Ritz added. “We are very grateful to our donor. The arts are the heart of a student’s educational experience and the study of music is connected with high levels of student achievement.”
