The Importance of Joining a School Band Program
The Importance of Joining a School Band Program
I remember the day I went to my middle school to try out instruments for the school band program. I knew, in my soul, I needed to be a part of the school music program, play an instrument, and learn new skills. I had played piano for a few years by that point, but I was drawn to the look and sound of the flute. Its cold touch welcomed my fingers, as I set the mouthpiece gently to my lip, and the sound I made sounded like a classic train whistle but I knew I could make music flow out of it someday. The band director said I was a natural. My parents signed up for a rent-to-own band instrument program and I got to play on a Yamaha used flute that looked brand new to me. I loved playing the flute. Playing in the school band program gave me so much confidence and experience. Exploring music keeps your brain sharp and engaged. Whether or not you think you have a knack for it, music, having music in your life are so impactful.
Fast forward one year. I was going into grade 8. I loved playing the flute with friends and being a part of group that makes music together. I practiced for hours every week and was dedicated. My band director said my practice habits were rare but I didn’t find it hard to get motivated because I loved playing the flute. The skills I learned I will carry for a lifetime. Patience, discipline, stress relief, teamwork… the list goes on and on. The band program gave me confidence and strength. It gave me qualities that I would never have had otherwise.
Let’s Explore the Benefits of Music Playing
Learning to play a new musical instrument in a school band program increases your cognitive ability. It makes you smarter. Additionally, it can also relieve stress and help with anxieties. Exploring music and learning an instrument takes time, commitment, and energy. It taught me what hard work was, and when I walked up on stage to play my first flute solo, the hard work all paid off. The confidence a student gains when learning an instrument is very impactful and meaningful.
Benefits of learning to play an instrument:
● Improves patience in students
● Improves creative thinking
● Improves memory and attention
● Increases feelings of self-worth
Joining a School Band Program
Being a part of a school band program was one of the best things I ever did as a kid. The band director was amazing, and I loved learning and exploring music. I gained so much from this.
Benefits of being in a school band program:
● Being a part of a school band gives the student different opportunities for socialization and networking
● Build friendships (already having a common ground - “band” - it’s a bit easier to start a friendship)
● Playing an instrument can help with emotional regulation and stress levels
● Playing in a school band encourages teamwork and collaboration School band programs are fantastic.
Personally speaking, I would recommend the band to anyone interested in creative expression, creative inspiration, and really anyone else who likes music (which I believe is almost everyone). The foundation of a band is to collaboratively create a beautiful piece of music, and the lessons gained by working together to make that happen are incredible. With so many instruments you're likely to find one you love. Explore various musical styles like classical, jazz, rock, blues, and so much more when you're in a school band program. Seize every opportunity to play. There is something for everyone. Being a part of a school band program changed my life. It gave me a safe place to express and feel my emotions and explore my curiosities. I got to experience so many styles of music and played for incredible audiences. My school band program opened doors to opportunities I would never have had otherwise. I think the importance of joining a school band program is enormous. Students learn, experience, feel and try so many things. It can generate a massive impact.
