With the focus on academic progress and school budgets tightening, it can be easy to let the creative subjects fall by the wayside - yet music is one of the most powerful tools we have to nurture children’s learning, wellbeing, and creativity.
Here are ten reasons why high-quality music provision is something that you can’t afford to lose:
- It provides a strong mathematical foundation.
When children tap out rhythms, count beats or learn about note value, they’re practising vital maths skills. Pattern, sequencing, timing, fractions - core mathematical skills and understanding can be made so much more accessible to pupils that need practical reinforcement.
- It strengthens language and literacy.
Music helps children tune in to sounds, rhythm and rhyme – the vital skills needed for early reading and writing. As they grow, pupils can extend their language skills through experimentation with lyrics and word play.
- It celebrates diversity and builds cultural capital.
Through folk songs and music from around the world, music gives children a chance to experience different cultures and perspectives, helping them to value the richness of both their local and global community.
- It embodies the Characteristics of Effective Learning.
Music invites children to ‘play and explore’, to be ‘active learners’, and to ‘create and think critically’. The Characteristics of Effective Learning isn’t just an EYFS framework – it contains vital skills for all ages. Whether pupils are experimenting with instruments, inventing their own tunes or moving to a beat, they will be engaged, motivated and deeply involved in their learning.
- It teaches perseverance.
Learning to play a simple tune or perform with others takes time and patience. Children experience the joy of working towards a goal, and that sense of achievement will stay with them and positively impact on all other areas of learning.
- It grows confidence.
There’s something powerful about watching a child sing out proudly or perform in front of others. Through music, children learn to trust themselves and to share their voices or creativity with others. Gentle but regular opportunities to perform either in groups, partners or individually, help to build pupils’ confidence and self-esteem.
- It builds connection.
There’s nothing better than performing music as a group. In fact, it’s scientifically proven to increase the release of endorphins – hormones that promote feelings of pleasure, enhance social bonding and even reduce pain! Whether it’s singing as a class or playing together on instruments, music fosters teamwork and belonging.
- It supports wellbeing and emotional health.
Music lessons and the creative arts are critically important when it comes to supporting pupil mental health and wellbeing. For some children, it’s their way to express what words can’t, and it becomes a vital outlet for emotional expression and self-regulation. For others, it’s a chance to reset, connect with peers and spend time doing something fun, practical and enjoyable.
- It ignites creativity.
Music is a subject of endless creativity and possibilities. Whether composing melodies, improvising rhythms or experimenting with instrumental sounds, music encourages children to experiment, take risks and find joy in discovery.
- It sparks joy.
And that, above all else, is why it matters. Music gives us so much. It brings energy, excitement and laughter into school life, and when children are joyful and fulfilled, they progress in all areas.
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