The sound of music is filling the halls of public elementary schools in Albuquerque, New Mexico. In the past, students in Albuquerque had music classes only every other year. Now kids in every grade there have music class for 45 to 60 minutes each week.
Joe Gershin is the performing arts director for Albuquerque Public Schools. He says learning to read and play music can help students perform better in other subjects.
“The skills you pick up directly translate into math and reading,” Gershin says.
Studies have shown many benefits of music classes. Among other things, researchers have found that music lessons can improve students’ attention spans and boost their confidence.
Though most people aren’t opposed to music classes, not everyone thinks they’re worth the money. In recent years, many schools nationwide have cut their music programs because of a lack of funding. The money they’ve saved often helps pay educators who teach other subjects, like math and reading.