Velázquez, Thompson Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Support Music Education for Students Across the Country
Washington, D.C.—Today, Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) introduced the Music In Our Schools Month Resolution, which would support music in schools by affirming the importance of music education, the benefits students receive from its instruction, and recognizing the hard work of music educators across the country.
Studies have found that students participating in school music programs show higher engagement levels across subject areas and increased attendance rates compared to students with no music exposure. Beyond improved participation, music education encourages and nurtures the development of essential skills, such as critical thinking, collaboration, and creative problem-solving. These skills have become increasingly important as America’s creative economy has grown to encapsulate 4% of the nation’s GDP.
The myriad of benefits provided by music education cannot be understated, and the disparity in access to quality music education cannot be overlooked. The Arts Education Data Report found that (in surveyed schools) less than half of the student population participated in music education courses, with the greatest disparities being found between low-poverty and high-poverty schools.
"The role of music is crucial in providing students with a well-rounded education and should not be forgotten. We must ensure that students across the nation have equitable access to the arts," said Congresswoman Velázquez. "I'm proud to have reintroduced this resolution, which will help to shine a light on the importance of providing accessible and enriching musical experiences for students of all ages and backgrounds.”
"Music is an incredibly important component of a well-rounded education,” said Congressman Thompson. "I am proud to support this resolution to further support access to music education and inspire the next generation."
This resolution is cosponsored by Reps. Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Adam Smith (D-WA), Jill Tokuda (D-HI), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson Jr. (D-GA), Lucy Mc Bath (D-GA), Terri Sewell (D-AL), Danny Davis (D-IL), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Sylvia Garcia (D-NY), and Andy Kim (D-NJ).
This resolution is also endorsed by: National Association for Music Education, J.W. Pepper and Son, Rock and Soul Forever Foundation / Teachrock.org, JazzSLAM, Lang Lang International, Music Foundation, Conn Selmer, Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM), National Association for the Study and Performance of African, American Music , Education Through Music, Kentuckians for the Arts , Music Will, Music Travel Consultants, National Music Council of the United States, Jazz Education Network, Quadrant Research, League of American Orchestras, El Sistema USA, Feierabend Association for Music Education, Education Through Music, and Music Teachers National Association.
A copy of the Resolution can be found here.
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