Vote to preserve city's rich musical tradition

Letter to the editor

Music education in our schools provides value far beyond the classroom walls. The Manitowoc Public School District's long and rich tradition of providing a comprehensive K-12 music program is a vital component of the growth and development of children in our community.

A growing body of research demonstrates that music enhances all areas of academic study. Brain research illustrates that playing a musical instrument has many cognitive benefits, such as improved memory skills and increased attention span. Additionally, the discipline of studying music is paramount for the simple fact that it is a part of a cultivated human experience. Music classes develop the whole student and are an integral part of a well-rounded academic curriculum.

Manitowoc is rich with many opportunities for musical performance and enjoyment. These opportunities are central to the cultural life of our community. If early music education is delayed, our students may miss out on full participation in this legacy of music in our community.

The Manitowoc Symphony Orchestra is proud to sponsor the young talent of six high school students who play in our orchestra. We want to ensure that musical opportunities for young people remain strong in our community. We believe this begins with our schools. The MSO encourages each citizen to consider the future of our community's musical and cultural life and the central role played by early music education and opportunity. Without early instrumental education programs in our schools, our civic musical groups may diminish and we risk our cultural legacy.

As the symphony board, we believe music empowers and changes lives. We are deeply committed to music education, appreciation, and performance. Music has the power to reach our spirits with a lasting impact. We want each of our students to have the opportunity to experience that impact to the fullest extent.

Manitowoc Symphony

Orchestra Board of Directors

Paul Stockhausen