For almost six years, I have dedicated my time and passion to participating in my school’s band class. It hasn’t just been me, but my friends have also put in time and efforts that will be practically null if our band class is taken away from us. We have spent every school day practicing to hone our skills, not only for ourselves, but our community. Taking away the band would take away live music at school events such as our Veteran’s day program and our Christmas program. Live music is a way for us students to connect with our audience and, just like any sports game, we find satisfaction and gratification from the opportunity to share our skills with the people in our community. 

This budget cut would affect those of us entering our senior year with dire consequences. Our senior year is the final chance for us to use our five years of experience to obtain scholarships and opportunities that are important to our futures. Scholarship opportunities that come from bands in Missouri can reward the recipient from $500 to several thousand or even a  full ride. Not only could depriving us students of that opportunity cause issues now, but it could make-or-break our ability to go to college. 

Not only would it affect us, but the middle school and high school band has grown so much in the past year; it would be a shame to cut the kids off from a passion they have only just begun to foster. Many studies show that creative outlets, such as band, improve cognitive function. Not only that, but music is a culmination of all subjects in school. Not only does music teach you counting, but you also have to be able to read and critically think. In band, we have to perfect our embouchure, air flow, and fingering all the while we tap our foot to keep time. This is beneficial because it improves how people playing music helps you perform better academically. Moreover, participation in band cultivates leadership skills, discipline, and teamwork; all of which are imperative to future success. 

The removal of this opportunity due to a budget cut can be avoided with alternative funding sources, such as grants dedicated to art education, partnerships with local businesses, or community fundraising efforts. In one year alone, we as a band raised three thousand dollars. This goes to say how much effort we are willing to put in to take care of our instruments and get the things we need, and how willing we would be to fundraise to keep the band as a program.

Budget cuts cannot deprive students of this invaluable experience. I urge parents, alumni, and community members to stand with us and advocate with us for the continuation of our band program. This petition will send a strong message that music education is important, and it is vital to our school and community.

(Chadwick is located near Springfield, MO. It is about 10 miles from Sparta, MO.)