It is important for students to engage in at least one art or music course each year throughout their high school experience. Beyond the core academic subjects, art and music classes provide students with the opportunity to be creative, express themselves, and find different outlets to unwind. Additionally, these courses allow students to develop logical skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to understand diverse cultures. These skills will prepare students for a future that demands more than just academic capability.
Participating in artistic activities has been proven to promote critical thinking and communication skills. Artists often have to overcome challenges and solve creative problems. Whether it’s mixing paint to find the perfect shade, hitting all the right notes on an instrument, or mastering the best angle for a photograph; artists often experiment to find imaginative solutions. Artistic people tend to think outside the box, and a creative eye allows them to come up with original ideas. In order to express thoughts to an audience, artists must learn how to communicate, share ideas, and collaborate with others. These skills will help students develop the ability to take constructive feedback which will ultimately help them both within and outside the classroom.
Although many people may consider a social studies class to be the best place to learn about different cultures, courses within the arts allow students to gain an even deeper understanding.
“Unless you travel a lot, it is very difficult to really put yourself in someone else’s shoes from a different country. I always wonder what happens around the world, and art and music answers those questions for me. Different cultures use different styles of arts, and they sing very different kinds of music. Using their art methods and singing their songs really helps me understand what is going on in the different cultures,” said freshman Abby Amalfitano.
Art reveals the development of history, and it highlights how there are cultural shifts over time. For instance, artists first used different styles and techniques depending on the resources available to them, a common theme in any history class. Similarly, music courses also explore how genres and styles evolved. This exposure allows students to visualize the cultural movements of different periods. In addition, art and music classes explore historical factors that influence artistic decisions and allow students to understand the context of art, in order to gain appreciation for the depth of cultural expression.
Art courses enhance students’ creativity and innovation. Students learn to take risks by testing new things, and eventually learn to overcome their fear of failure. The willingness to experiment with new techniques without being afraid is extremely valuable for any student. The various mediums used in both arts and music are beneficial because students can express themselves freely.
“I agree that four years of the arts should be mandatory in high school! The benefits of ongoing arts classes are very clear. Not only does it make a student more well-rounded, but it provides them with an outlet to thrive and express themselves in new and interesting ways. I’ve personally seen students who take four years of fine art to have increased self-esteem, improved social skills, less stress and anxiety and improved mental health. Those are universal things that so many people crave,” said Ms. Thomas, an art teacher here at Schreiber.
Generally, there are few rules in arts and music which opens up the door for individuality. These classes allow students to share ideas, receive feedback, and work together; this collaboration inspires students to respect and listen to each other.
Art and music are outlets for students to release stress and calm down throughout the day. In core classes students are graded primarily on tests and quizzes; however, in the arts, students are graded on effort and imagination.
“I am a student participating in the Schreiber Chorus, and this has been an amazing experience for me. Even though I am not the best singer and do not plan on pursuing a job in the music industry, chorus has helped me develop a deep understanding that most core subjects could not provide me with. I am not judged on my singing ability, but I am evaluated on my interest and participation. I think students who are not a part of this community are really missing out,” said freshman Jiya Dhillon.
Arts classes provide a break to relax and expand curiosity so that students are able to experiment and address problems with a sense of wonder. This approach fosters a growth mindset, where students view their questions as opportunities to learn and improve.
Finally, arts and music classes provide students with many transferable skills that will be carried with them into adulthood. Students are able to learn these essential life skills while relaxing and enjoying themselves. Overall, the laid-back yet instructional environment of art and music classes promotes creativity by ensuring the opportunities to experiment, take risks, and develop a growth mindset. Ultimately, art and music are not based solely on talent; rather they generate an enriched environment that students should take advantage of throughout their high school career.