… And music for all - music and society

American Music Teacher, June-July, 2002

"I grew up surrounded by music and it continues to be one of my passions to this day. I believe that every child should have the access to the gifts that music brings. Much more than a simple pastime, music is a learning tool. It teaches self-discipline, self-confidence, and academic skills, just to name a few. Most importantly, music allows us to express ourselves in a way that a pen and paper often cannot. Without people making music, this world would be a quiet and unimaginative place."

--Debbie A. Stabenow, U.S. Senator, Michigan

"Music education can help spark a child's imagination or ignite a lifetime of passion. When you provide a child with new worlds to explore and challenges to tackle, the possibilities are endless. Music education should not be a privilege for a lucky few, it should be a part of every child's world of possibility."

--Hillary Rodham Clinton, U.S. Senator, New York

"Music provides children with a deeper insight into their world. Studies have shown that it helps to tone skills in reading, writing, and arithmetic, while also helping children to relate better to the world around them. It provides an outlet in which they can express themselves. The skills acquired in these music courses last a lifetime. I support every effort to keep music education in the lives of children."

--Christopher J. Dodd, U.S. Senator, Connecticut

"Music education teaches our children the value of discipline, creativity and teamwork, and it gives them a positive outlet through which to express their feelings. Both my daughters played instruments when they were growing up, and their music greatly enriched their lives, and the life of the entire family. Learning to make music not only nourishes our children's minds--it lifts their hearts as well. No child should be denied that privilege."

--Tom Harkin, U.S. Senator, Iowa

"Music education is an ideal tool for young people to develop the personal discipline needed to carry them successfully through life. Children learn about setting goals and persevering to achieve those goals through the process of taking a sheet of music, practicing that piece, and then mastering it to perform for their teachers, parents, friends and for themselves. This is an invaluable lesson in a culture that values immediate gratification over the joy that comes from a success born of disciplined, hard work. My wife and I are fortunate to see these lessons learned firsthand as our own children pursue their study of the piano. Music educators are to be commended for their commitment to our children."

--Rick Santorum, U.S. Senator, Pennsylvania

"Music is a gift to the world that brings joy and profound pleasure to all of us. I strongly believe that every child should be exposed to music and have the opportunity to play an instrument. I played the clarinet through high school and loved learning how to master playing it. It made me feel talented and creative.

"I now use music to play with my 1-year-old granddaughter. Some of our happiest moments are when I serenade her on the piano with `Mary Had a Little Lamb.' She is aglow, and that's the power of music."

--Benjamin L. Cardin, U.S. Representative, Maryland

"As a teacher, I have witnessed the wonders of music education firsthand. I have seen a child with little or no self confidence and self worth, pick up a musical instrument and become `miraculously' transformed into a well adjusted young adult. By giving a child the means to express himself, music opens doors and provides room to grow. Music has been instrumental in my life as well, first as a teacher, now as a Congressman. I know that it will continue to inspire me and my family."

--Nick Lampson, U.S. Representative, Texas

"As a former drummer in my high school band, I appreciate the valuable role of music education in the lives of students. I believe that music is capable of unlocking the minds of children and generating new interest in education. I am grateful for this opportunity to recognize the importance of music educators. These teachers have the unique opportunity to help students cultivate talents and skills that will enrich the rest of their lives. I continue to find my appreciation of music enhanced by the knowledge and experiences I had as a student in music education."

--James David Matheson, U.S. Representative, Utah

"Music is a vital part of our learning experience. As a child I learned the art of music through the bugle and the trombone. I value the memories that I made while participating in the music program. I am able to look back and remember the first time I was able to play a song, the first concert, and the first music award. Music not only gives us these memories, music helps sharpen the mind in all areas of study. I hope students will continue to dedicate time to the learning and enjoyment of music, as it will brighten their futures."

--Constance Morella, U.S. Representative, Maryland

"Music is a big part of my life. I learned to play the harmonica when I was a boy, and I had one of the best music educators around--my own dad. He taught me to play `Silent Night' on the harmonica for my mother as a Christmas present when I was eight years old, and that's how I got started.