Music Education: A Lifelong Philosophy

By Marty Wimmer, Classical 94.5 WNED program host and public school music teacher

In recent years, Physical Education has been moving toward a philosophy of lifelong health and wellness. They're teaching more activities in which students can participate throughout adulthood, such as swimming, weight-training, aerobics, stretching, and nutrition.

Is Music Education adopting a parallel philosophy of lifelong participation in music? We often hear of high school seniors selling their musical instruments after graduation, or simply storing them in mom's basement where they never again see the light of day. After years of lessons, it seems a shame that an 18 year-old would think his or her music-making days were done.

Move to the Music

By Marty Wimmer, Classical 94.5 WNED program host

Our son is six years old and in first grade. I've noticed that whenever he hears music, his first reaction is to move his body - to wiggle, clap, stomp and dance on the table. As a veteran public school music teacher, this made me think. I've noticed that my students do the same things at school when they hear music - with the exception of dancing on the table. I can’t allow that. In a nutshell, they want to move to the music. It’s as natural as breathing.

Why Music Education is so Important.

By Marty Wimmer, Classical 94.5 WNED program host

As a music teacher, one might think I’d be offended by the question, “Why is music education important?” Music has its own intrinsic value. It needs no further justification. However, some don’t see it that way. Some think of music as an extra. They need further convincing. Thus, this is an opportunity.