Researchers are providing us with an unprecedented understanding of how we think and learn. Now we know that music is a vital part of a complete education. Children can benefit greatly from making music. Now is the time to bolster a more complete music education program at your school by developing a diverse music curriculum that will attract more students to arts classes.

Studies have shown that guitar classes enhance school music programs by offering a more complete arts education, and that guitar classes attract students who might not otherwise participate in organized music education in the schools*.
*GAMA Web site, www.discoverguitar.com, 2002

Increases SAT Scores
There is a direct correlation between improved SAT scores and the length of time spent studying the arts. College-bound seniors who have had school music experience scored 52 points higher on the verbal portion of their SATs and 37 points higher in math (89 points combined) than those without arts instruction.
–Profiles of SAT and Achievement Test Takers, The College Board, 1998

Improves Skills Across the Curriculum
Studies have linked active music making with better language and math ability, improved school grades, better-adjusted social behavior and improvements in "spatial-temporal reasoning."
–American Music Conference, 2001

Teaches the Habit of Excellence
“The offerings in music history, music theory and arts history seem to me a rich and enviable component for a secondary school.”
–Stanford University Admissions Officer

Prepares Youth for the Future
“As a chief executive of a technology company that thrives on creativity, I want to work with people whose imaginations have been unleashed and who tackle problems as challenges rather than see them as obstacles. An education enriched by the creative arts should be considered essential for everyone.”
–John Sculley, former Chairman/CEO, Apple Computers, Inc.

Music for Every Child
Because music is a basic expression of human culture, every student should have access to a balanced, comprehensive and sequential program of study in music.
–National Standards for Arts Education,
1994 by Music Educators National Conference (MENC)