“A Musical Community”

As the weeks of a summer vacation draw to a close for many children, I ask myself, “How many kids chose music?” One of the great features about our county’s school system is the excellent selection of music educators. Beginning in elementary school, students are provided a massive kickstart by inspiring children to make music a part of their everyday lives. After the elementary classroom, students are given more freedom in their educational careers by having the choice to join a school ensemble. Orchestra programs specialize in stringed instruments like the violin, viola, cello, and bass. Band programs are focused on brass and woodwind instruments (trumpet, tuba, clarinet, flute, etc.) that train students to play those sounds that get your blood pumping in the fall at football games. Don’t want to rent or buy an instrument? Just join the choir! In our schools’ choral programs, students can use their voice to sing beautiful harmonies and learn how to read music. I’ll tell you the truth; I never signed up for one of these great programs when I was in school. In middle school, I was too busy learning the guitar and trying to start a band but there is hope for the free spirited as well. There are so many great guitar teachers in Cleveland County at our local music stores and beyond. These professionals also teach instruments like the bass, fiddle, mandolin, piano, drums, and of course, the banjo. Since our rich cultural history boosts names such as Don Gibson and Earl Scruggs, it only makes sense that music is steeped in our children’s identity. Maybe one day we can have enough interest to create a community funded and operated orchestra?