Music plays an important part in shaping our culture and society, and is more a part of our everyday lives than ever before. Most people listen to the radio; play CDs or vinyl; use streaming services; or attend gigs, concerts and festivals.
Music is good for pupils’ wellbeing and their mental health. Taking part in music making and listening to music are also joyful activities. Enjoyment of learning is a core principle of Curriculum for Excellence, which envisages young people being active in their learning and having opportunities to develop and demonstrate their creativity. Music is an important means of human expression, which allows children to find their identity, use their voice, and boost their self-esteem. For children from low-income families, music can be a way of helping them to overcome disadvantage.
Curriculum for Excellence has creativity and self-expression at its heart. Learning how to play an instrument boosts pupils’ confidence, mental health, organisational skills, teamwork skills, literacy and numeracy. The benefits are manifold. And yet, the value our education system places on music seems to be diminishing while our enjoyment of it and realisation of its importance increases. This paradox must be challenged.
Scottish Instrumental Music Teachers are amongst the best in the world. Their expertise, professionalism and dedication must be recognised, and we must value their contribution to educating our young people. We need your help to defend and maintain this vital service.
