What a terrific “My Turn” piece in a recent Recorder. Ms. Potee put it all so clearly and in perspective … that music and the arts belong in a school budget at all times.
To me, the visual arts, including drama, along with painting and related subjects are the voices of a town, providing outlets for young and fresh views, while the musical parts, including chorus and band are the heartbeat of a town, helping to keep it alive and growing.
A school without music is a sad thing to think about. And how many students have said as adults, “sometimes it was just the music — or the art classes, or chorus that kept me in school.” True today, as well, I’m sure.
Years ago, when budgets were just as tight, there was a phrase, “keep music in our schools,” that found wonderful support from the public. My hope is that it will today as well.
Thanks, Ms. Potee, for your wise words.
Estelle Cade
Greenfield