Music has an undeniable everlasting impression on people. It can enrapture those who truly grasp the emotion behind it. It's another way to tell a story. Though many see its importance, not enough people understand why it's so critical to others like me.
My first encounter with an instrument was back when I was in first grade. I remember walking to the bathroom when I heard a soft melody roam the hallways. Due to my inquisitive mind, I followed it as if I were entranced. It piqued my interest so much that I had completely forgotten about the bathroom and explored the part of the school that I never had before. I reached a small, dark hallway that had one room with a light on. I quietly walked toward the door that was slightly cracked open. When I peeked inside, I saw the back of a slim man with dark hair, and he was holding a silver flute in his hands. His music was the cause for my bewitchment. I never saw the man's face or ever learned his name but to this day, his image and his sound from that flute has inspired me to play music for 11 years now.
As I continued to go through elementary, middle and high school, music was the one thing I always dedicated and committed myself to. I wasn't healthy enough to play sports with a team, and I wasn't social enough to want to join a club. Because of band, however, I didn't miss out on much of that. Being a part of a band was like having a family at school. I learned as much about teamwork and practice as a sports team. My conductor was my coach, and my band members were my team members. I've played in many school concerts, all city concerts, pep rallies and parades. Playing music was equally important to me when I played in city hall for the mayor and played at another school for young children. I especially enjoyed playing for younger children because I would see the same spark light up in their eyes as mine did when I first became intoxicated with music.
Cutting funds in the arts does not make sense to me. Band, art, chorus, etc. are just as important as the sports that a school has. Band requires equipment, uniforms (funny looking ones but hey, I wore them proudly), instruments, specific temperatures and dedication. Being able to read music, play notes, control your breathing, change octaves, play different time signatures and scales, focus on dynamics, do vibrato or trill all while keeping your posture in check takes a lot of time to master. If I hadn't learned how to do all of this, I don't think I could hear music the same way I hear it now. I appreciate every small detail in any piece of any genre.
Classical music was a base for me to really understand all other music. For example, as much I enjoyed playing classical music, I enjoy listening to heavy metal rather than classical. I feel more kids need this stimulation introduced to them in schools. Band was always the highlight of my days. It was a place for me to relax and wind down despite hearing drums being played in the background. (I'd get headaches from it at first but it later became as natural to me as breathing.) It offers a haven for students and a place for everyone to belong. All you have to do is pick your weapon of choice!
