The power of music
By: Janet Zahn 04/01/2013
Dan Chouinard once said, “There’s no place I’d rather be than with a group of people who want to sing together. Our thorniest issues–the deficit, health care, taxation, immigration, snow emergency etiquette–would all be met with greater civility if we all spent more time singing.”
Like Dan, I believe in the power of music.
About 15 years ago I was volunteering with two groups of kids in Camden. They all loved music and were very eager to learn more about it. But many of those kids just didn’t have opportunities to dig into music and experience it fully. And so, the idea of starting a music school in this community was born. Wouldn’t it be great, I thought, if there was a place, right here, where people of all ages could experience the power of music?
Music power has been documented in study after study. Music instruction improves language and math skills. It can improve your health and well-being. It broadens your understanding of the world and your place in it. And if you’ve been to Live on the Drive, a Camden Music School recital or sing-along, a school concert or any number of other musical events in the neighborhood, you’ll agree that these events are not only a lot of fun – they are a valuable neighborhood asset.
Music adds to the vibrancy of our lives and the viability of this place. As you think about what makes this neighborhood great, include music in the mix. Then go and do! Take some music lessons at CMS. Attend a concert. Join a band. Sing with your children. You, and the neighborhood, will be more powerful for it.
Janet Zahn,
Camden