As parents and grandparents we can easily see the powerful influence that peer relationships have on young people today. Providing healthy opportunities for social interaction is vital to the development of a young person and is a critical part of what we do at ‘Growth Through Music Foundation’. Through extensive research and many years of combined practical experience in music education, we have seen how learning to play and perform on instruments is one of the most powerful contributors to a child’s social development. Through positive interaction with others, students in GTM learn patience and essential communication skills, allowing them to work in a team environment. These skills can help the student overcome social boundaries and accomplish goals which are integral to their individual success!
“Nine out of ten adults and teenagers who play instruments agree that music-making brings the family closer together.” —Music Making and Our Schools, American Music Conference, 2000
