Chapter 3

I would have to agree with Vision 2020 in the fact of how important music is. I too believe that it helps to lift the spirit and how it can improve a person’s quality of life. I do agree with every point that the Housewright Declaration makes; everyone does reserve the right to practice music, it is very important that the integrity of music should be preserved, and that music has an important part in the curriculum. Vision 2020 has made me more aware of all of the responsibilities that I will have in the future as a music teacher. It has made me realize that we as music teachers hold a huge responsibility in keeping music alive in our schools and in the community. We must also be at the top of our game to make sure we are including the latest advances in music so that it is also staying current with the times.

1. It helps the students build stills in everyday tasks like group building and working with others. “There are many benefits from participation in music activities-performing before an audience, getting to know a teacher who is a good role model, achieving recognition in terms of an award, and so on.” (Hoffer, 28) This quote helps to show how music is used to give students skills that they will use with everyday life.
2. Since music surrounds everyone, it should be embraced. “The word music covers a lot of territory. It extends from the tunes people whistle while working around the house, to pieces teenagers use to associate themselves with their peers, to music created to inspire patriotic or religious feelings….” (Hoffer, 24) I think that because music is evident all around us in the world, that people should be taught about it so that they can appreciate what they are hearing.
3. Music is a skill that can continue with a person throughout their life. “While average life expectancy has been increasing, the average work week has been decreasing. These facts mean that more time for leisure is available to people. Music can be an important avocational activity for many people.” (Hoffer 28) I do believe that music is a skill that can carried though and enjoyed throughout an entire lifetime.
4. “Music has a long tradition of being included in school for reasons such as citizenship, character development, team spirit, and health benefits.” (Hoffer, 27)This quote helps show how music can help influence and make someone a better member of society.
5. Music can help create a better quality of life. “With no music, people would be ‘psychologically stunted,’ ‘artistically deprived,’ ‘spiritually limited,’ or some such words.” (Hoffer 21) I can’t begin to imagine a world without music. When you think of all the minute sounds that surround us, and to even begin to take those away would greatly impact our lives.

Hoffer, C. R. (2001). Teaching Music in the Secondary Schools. Belmont: Wadsworth-Thomson Learning.