“Music education is essential for all students—not just for the marketable skills it provides, but for the invaluable life lessons it teaches. It fosters creativity, discipline, adaptability, and collaboration—skills that enrich every area of life. More than that, music nurtures intrinsic motivation by encouraging students to set personal goals, overcome challenges, and take pride in their progress. It also builds early leadership skills, as students often step into roles that require initiative, responsibility, and teamwork within an ensemble. Creating a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment is vital to this process. In such a space, students feel empowered to be themselves, take risks, and explore freely—laying the foundation for deep, meaningful learning and lasting personal growth.”

-Jaylon Black