The evidence is everywhere that the school year is in full swing! Homework has ramped up, sports practices and clubs are meeting and, of course, there’s music.

Finding the balance between it all is part of growing up. Our young people are exploring new activities, new interests, and figuring out who they are — and who they want to be — all while striving to meet the demands of school, home and their social lives.

Through it all, you can rest easy knowing that by being a part of music at Overdale, your child will be better equipped to navigate the challenges of school and life. We know this because creating music has significant benefits for emotional, physical, and cognitive growth!

Playing an instrument engages both sides of the brain and improves reading, critical thinking skills, and the ability to focus and pay attention. By playing in the ensemble, students develop bonds with one another. Maybe these bonds weren’t obvious before, but each year that these students play together, the bonds grow stronger. I’ve seen it before. By the end of the year, many of the kids will be inseparable. And even if they don’t hang out away from school, the message is clear: If you’re in our group, you are one of us. We have your back.

Every day your child is shaping who they are and who they will become. They are making decisions and learning behaviors that will have an impact on them for the rest of their life! Being involved in music helps kids make good choices by surrounding them with other students and challenging them to grow musically and otherwise each and every day.

My hope is that you and your child will recognize music as more than just an activity, but an essential part of their growth as a person. Rather than a stressor, music enables them to achieve their goals, build the life skills that are invaluable in all that they do, and, most importantly, enrich their lives in a way no other pursuit can.

If there is anything you need, I’m here to help. Call or email anytime.

Sincerely,

Ms. Morrison