Many people agree that education is important; Math, science, English and history are the building blocks for a solid future. What about the arts and music? Should we cut out these programs in order to make room for stronger academics?

Many of those who have been exposed to music early on agree that music lessons were something they looked forward to every day. An all-inclusive art form, music education allow students to learn and develop skills in areas other than traditional academics. Almost all children enjoy music in some form, so many feel that children should not have to make choices regarding extracurricular activities such as deciding between participating in sports or taking music lessons.

Music theory in school.

Music tourism and its elements are important, yet the one fundamental of music theory is, in fact, music education, and it is the one area that schools are considering eliminating. Some believe that music is a subject that is not always necessary, yet kids have the opportunity to develop creativity, open mindedness and specific skills that are necessary to play an instrument. Additionally, students develop ways to interact and work as a team in a choir or orchestra as they follow a leader who is an expert in his or her field.

Music advances education, and it is a more viable alternative to allowing individuals to watch television or play video games. If kids do not have the opportunity to indulge in music education in the early school years, how will they know what choices they could have made when they reach higher levels in their institution? Additionally, some believe that removing music education leaves a two-tiered system: those who can afford private guitar lessons, for example, and those who cannot. Kids who come from families who cannot afford to enroll them in guitar lessons outside of school will not have the same connection and opportunities that their peers have, which is all the more reason to give every child a chance to develop a love for music.

It's good for the soul.

Music is a subject on which many kids rely, much like sports and the arts for a sense of progression, enjoyment and self-esteem. While it may be difficult for young people to enjoy music if they are not particularly skilled at it, the positives such as creativity, autonomy, self-determination, self-expression and confidence are worth so much more.

Some believe that music simply will not work for everyone, but it is important to provide educational content through the materials used. Music theory is much more than simply shaking maracas to a CD; it involves patience, practice and skill to develop what is necessary to be successful. Parents and educators must work together to ensure that they are providing high-quality and effective methods so that kids may learn to the best of their abilities.