Value of Music

Music is significant to human life. Cultures and people groups all around the world, past and present, make and enjoy music in unique styles. God encourages His creation to worship Him with music; in Psalm 66, the psalmist claims that all creation shall worship and sing praises to God (Psalm 66:4, New King James Version). God shared music with His creation that they may enjoy it in community with Him and the rest of creation. Paul encouraged the believers in Ephesus to worship God and to encourage one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Music also allows humans to express creativity. God made man and woman in His image and gave them the ability to create. All of God’s creation reflects His artistry, and God’s image in humans is reflected when they make music.

Music is valuable in numerous ways. Levinson writes that music has economic value, artistic value, aesthetic value, social value, practical value, instrumental value, and experiential value.[1] Music can be used to communicate stories and to create community. Music can also be used to calm and to heal. I Samuel 16 records that David’s music refreshed King Saul who had been distressed; the development of music therapy reveals that music can be used as a tool to bring restoration. Music can bring joy and fulfillment. Although music cannot fully satisfy nor give true peace, God has gifted humans with music so that life is fuller and more colorful.

Value of Music Education

Music education improves the quality of life of students as individuals and as members of society. The social activities that students engage in as they make music are opportunities for them to learn to interact with others and to collaborate with others towards a common goal. These skills are essential for a fulfilling life in community. Through music education, students can develop an individual sense of responsibility, discipline, and perseverance. As stated in the MENC Centennial, “the primary purpose of education is not to create a workforce; it is to improve the quality of life for individuals and for society” and a healthy society requires musically fulfilled people.[2] Music education is vital for holistically equipping students to flourish as human beings made in the image of God.

Every student is made in the image of God and has the ability to make music. Students differ in their music-making skills and inclination for music. The music educator’s goal should be to equip students to enjoy music and to make music that brings value to those around them. Jesus taught His followers the right way to live by setting the example with His life. Likewise, music educators teach through example by demonstrating a love for music and by adding value to their students’ lives through music.