Music in Our Schools
Many people know that there are endless benefits to music and a variety of ways music can be included in our day to day lives. However, did you know that music can be used as a form of therapy, especially in our school systems?! Today our Music Therapist is going to teach you all about music education, music therapy, and why every student should have access to music as part of their education.
Click here for a downloadable all on music in our schools!
What is Music Education?
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“As a music educator, I work each day to pull back the curtain on music and show students that they have a place in the world of music. My most important responsibility is helping each student find a place in the world of music that they love and feel like they belong in.” – Samantha Altmann, Choral Music Teacher
- Music education programs focus on musical goals by engaging students in:
- Vocal and/or instrumental performance
- Music theory
- Composition
- Aural skills
- Music history
- And more!
Why is Music Education Important
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“Music is intrinsically part of who we are. All throughout world history, music has a firm place in cultural identities, religious practices, political movements, and developing one’s sense of self and confidence.” – Samantha Altmann, Choral Music Teacher
- Music education gives students the tools they need to actively participate in the many rich music environments the world has to offer.
- Access to music education, especially from a young age, can help to develop essential skills that benefit students in other areas of their life and education, including
- Language and reasoning
- Memorization
- Hand-eye coordination
- Discipline
- Imagination and creative thinking
- Teamwork
- Stress management
What is Music Therapy?
- Music therapy services are provided to students who have Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
- Our music therapist creates an engaging therapeutic environment that focuses on each student’s unique strengths, goals, and preferences.
- Music therapists use music-based interventions to target non-musical goals, such as
- Academic skills
- Communication, language, and self-expression
- Social skills
- Emotional well-being and self-regulation
- Motor development
- Daily living skills
- And more!
Why is Music Therapy Important?
- It is a unique, evidence-based way to support students in accessing their education and reaching their full potential.
- Also, it can increase attention and motivation to participate more fully in the educational setting.
- Music therapists can provide strategies to encourage a student’s participation in the least restrictive environment.
- Often times music therapists will collaborate with other teachers/therapists by providing effective ways to incorporate music into their curriculum/sessions.
For more music therapy fun, check us out on social media!
Facebook: Project Play Therapy, LLC
Instagram: @ProjectPlayTherapy
Twitter: @ProjectPlayLLC
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