Why is music important in school?

The astonishing popularity of the American hit series Glee suggests one thing above all – that school music these days can be a far cry from the sometimes painful and often uninspiring lessons of days gone by. Despite the highly unlikely (and definitely lightweight!) plot, Glee showcases vibrant, get-up-and-dance, toe-tapping musical numbers which are actually really good, and proof that choral work is much more than Bach and Vivaldi - not that one should underestimate the modern pulling power of either of these two greats. Never before, though, has belonging to a school choir been quite so potentially cool!

Music is often underestimated by both schools and parents, relegated to the second division of subjects which struggle to find space in the curriculum and compete for small numbers of takers at GCSE and A Level. Yet music is arguably a universal language, connecting human beings of every creed or culture, and touching our emotions in ways that nothing else can. Music can be uplifting, spiritual and joyous ... a life without music would be a very dull one indeed, and this is probably one of the most important lessons our children should learn at some point.

The creativeness associated with music does not always fit naturally into the strictures of public examinations, but the study of the technical skills associated with music, from sight-reading to composition, underpins higher levels of achievement and indeed enjoyment of music later in life. Music offers a way for children to express their natural creativity, and – as in all fields – the more you know, the more successful you can become, and the more satisfying the experience will be. A dry academic introduction to music will not hit the right button with everyone; a sound introduction to the skills of music-making, however, coupled with an ethos that encourages experimentation and values the results, is an essential grounding for young people, and will lead to their greater appreciation of music in the future.

Time spent learning these technical skills at school has the added bonus of consolidating skills learned elsewhere in the curriculum, most notably those of maths and languages (both modern and classical) – or any subject, in fact, where regular practice and gradual extension from basics to more extended work allows the building up of a skill. Realising that many things in life require precision in order to create excellence is a life lesson in itself, and our children need this inspiration if they are to recognise that hard work is worthwhile and pays off in the end. As far as music is concerned, some exposure to masters in the field, perhaps through visiting musicians leading masterclasses, can be hugely inspiring and a real insight into the brilliant heights to which prolonged study and interest can lead.

Let us not forget, either, that music is a great tool of social cohesion. Belonging to an orchestra, a band or a choir can bring the same buzz as belonging to a sports team, and by learning how to work together with others musically, children are taught team work just as well as they are in other parts of school life. Moreover, for music to work in practice, it demands significant discipline and focus; these too are excellent skills for young people to learn.

Music has a hugely important role to play in school, and a good school will be overflowing with opportunities for music-making and music appreciation. From choirs and orchestras to bands and jamming sessions, all pupils should have at least some chance to participate in music for fun and enjoyment, as well as to listen to it regularly. A school that places value on music will find ways to bring music to life throughout the school, and not restrict it to the confines of music practice rooms.

What, then, should parents look for when they are seeking to assess the quality of music learning and teaching in school? Top of the list: inspiring teachers and a wealth of opportunities for all pupils. Judge a school by the quality of its music-making in concerts and performances, but also by the active encouragement given to everyone to participate, learn and strive to understand and make fantastic music. You may or may not find a Glee club, but you should find joy in music around every corner.