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ADULT PARTICIPATION IN COMMUNITY BANDS
The number of community bands in the United States is rising, and adults in
community bands cite two main reasons for their participation:
1) social environment
2) pursuit of happiness and excellence
The overwhelming majority of participants in community bands performed in school
bands, and statistically, very few have taken private lessons on their
instrument (generally less than 10% in most community bands.)
The trend toward community bands makes us believe that school music directors
are doing something right. The sense of community, aesthetics, and
perseverance instilled in school band members remains throughout life.
Adults who play in community bands come from different occupations and
backgrounds. However, they are all taxpayers, they can vote, and through their
actions they are advocates for music education.
Here are some quotes from members of a Japanese community band about the reasons
they are musicians:
"I feel it gives me a rich life." (Nurse)
"It helps to keep good communication between my husband and myself. I
feel good when we get applause from the audience when we are on stage."
(Housewife)
"The music I play helps me to express myself. Music is part of my
life." (Office worker)
"I like to continue to pursue the joy of learning." (Government
official)
"This is the only thing I can do." (Operator)
"I get frustrated if I just listen to music." (Junior high school
teacher)
"I can't forget the emotion [happy moments] when we perform the
concert." (University student)
"I can forget about myself." (Salesman)
"I never forget the impression of beautiful harmony." (Graphic
designer)
"I can see the communication among the city people."
(Businessman)
"Since I started to play music when I was little, if I continue, I feel I
can keep my childhood feeling and memory." (Electrical engineer)
"Music is the oasis of my heart. Through music I can express
myself." (Doctor)
"Being a musician is, I think, the order from God. As long as music
exists in the universe, I will continue." (Computer hardware engineer)
"For my life." (Bookstore clerk)
Encourage your students to keep playing and singing after they leave school.
It will lead to more music supporters in your community and an enriched life for
your former students.
Source: "Participation in Community and Company Bands in Japan" by
Deborah A. Sheldon. Published in "Update: Applications of Research in Music
Education." Vol.17 No.1, Fall-Winter 1998.
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