The message should be unequivocally clear, music matters. There should be no doubt, no barrier, no exclusivity, no denial of access through deliberate or subconscious restriction, economic, social or cultural.... music is part of our very being, our existence.And it must be part of our learning from the moment we start formal education as children.
Music is a universal language that transcends borders, cultures, and even time. It has the power to bring people together, express emotions, and communicate messages in a way that no other medium can. Yet, despite its significance in our lives, music education remains undervalued and often absent from school curriculums. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of songwriting and music creation in schools and why these skills should be fostered and encouraged.
Music is not just entertainment; it is also an educational tool that can enhance cognitive development, critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and social skills. By learning music, students are exposed to a variety of musical genres, styles, and traditions, which can broaden their cultural horizons and foster their appreciation for diversity. Music education can also improve their memory, attention, and creativity, which are essential skills for success in any field.
Songwriting and music creation, in particular, offer students a unique opportunity to express their thoughts, feelings, and perspectives through music. By writing and composing their own songs, students can explore their creativity and develop their voice as artists. Moreover, they can also learn valuable skills such as music theory, lyric writing, melody composition, and arrangement, which are essential for a career in music.
But beyond the technical skills, songwriting and music creation can also provide a therapeutic outlet for students to express themselves and deal with their emotions. Music has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. By encouraging students to create their own music, schools can provide a space for students to explore their emotions, work through challenges, and build resilience.
Through our work at the Songwriting Charity, we know that songwriting and music creation can also help students build their confidence and self-esteem. By sharing their music with others, students can receive constructive feedback, refine their skills, and gain a sense of accomplishment. Moreover, music can also provide a platform for students to spread messages of hope, empowerment, and social justice. In an increasingly complex world, music can be a powerful vehicle for advocacy and change. Our popular anti-bullying programme ‘Bully Beat’ is an excellent example of this.
Neil Brand, author, dramatist, musician and composer, and good friend of the charity shared his thoughts on why music matters.
As Nathan has said, the educational and therapeutic quality of music in schools is incalculable - it feeds the curiosity and confidence of children who may be struggling with so many everyday pressures at school and at home, and provides both a creative spur and a release within which individuals can express themselves with joy. The Songwriting Charity brings all these qualities to schools with a deft mix of superb musicianship and deep insight into young minds and their music - their visits are always beneficial, and all the more valuable as so much music education in schools is being cut. They teach all aspects of music, but above all its communal joy, and in these times, that is the most precious thing of all.
Finally, songwriting and music creation can also prepare students for careers in the music industry. With the rise of digital technology, music creation has become more accessible than ever before, and students can learn how to produce and distribute their own music independently. By providing students with the skills and knowledge to navigate the music industry, schools can empower them to pursue a career in music and contribute to the creative economy.
In conclusion, songwriting and music creation should be an integral part of school curriculums. By fostering the skills and creativity of students in music, schools can provide a powerful tool for self-expression, cultural enrichment, emotional intelligence, and career preparedness. Whether it is through traditional music education or specialised programs, schools have an important role to play in the development of the next generation of artists, creators, songwriters and innovators.
The Songwriting Charity does exactly what it says on the tin, and so much more. Want to have a taster piano or singing lesson? Or be part of a mentoring programme that will help boost your confidence, skills and productivity? We're here for you.If you’d like us to visit your school or community group and deliver an inspiring songwriting workshop then please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
We’re a friendly bunch!
Nath x
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