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Music Organizations: Why Philippine Universities Still Need Them

Music Organizations: Why Philippine Universities Still Need Them

Do you think music organizations should still be a thing?

 

 

As multi-million companies continue to focus on the likes of information technology, product development and data analytics, there’s been somewhat of a debate on the importance of the arts. Is it necessary? Should it backed up by money and, if so, how much? Shouldn’t these take a backseat to science experiments, math courses and computer labs?

 

The answer quick answer is no. If you want a longer answer, watch Dead Poet’s Society.

 

 

But the captain is talking about words, poetry and literature in its encompassing form—none of those boys wanted to be musicians. So what about music? 

 

If you want another quick answer, it’s this: Music organizations pretty damn important, too. 

 

RELATED: Book Review: Art as Therapy

 

The general academic correlation 

To placate those that might argue music is a waste of time that could have been “better” used for studies, let reach you in a language you understand: statistics. 

 

A 10-year study that tracked some 25,000 students found that those involved in music received higher grades on standardized tests. Moreover, they respectively garnered 63 points and 44 points higher on verbal and math sections of their college entrance tests. On a bigger scale, research has also found that students whose schools had low-quality music programs scored lower on standardized tests than students who attended schools with high-quality music programs. 

 

The “real-life” stuff

Now it’s time to talk to the people who don’t think academic scores make a person. What does music have to do with the real-life stuff? 

 

Studies show that music teaches discipline, as well as time management skills and hand-eye coordination. It teaches empathy and helps drive an appreciation for different cultures. Having your hand in music develops teamwork, confidence, spatial intelligence and critical thinking in you. 

 

And don’t we all need a little more critical thinking?

 

 

RELATED: Look Mum No Drums: Talking Music-Making with Francesco Pellegrin

 

So research has proven that there are benefits to music that can’t be ignored. The question might then become whether or not schools should be providing the avenue to all its students or if it should simply be a private endeavor. 

 

The thing about music organizations in universities is that it gives all students access to the discipline—whether they’re there to explore, hone talent or simply find someone to jam with. These orgs, as we so endearingly call them, give a sense of community that would otherwise be lacking. Sometimes it isn’t about showing off or forming a group in the hopes of one day making it a career; it’s just about that sense of family. 

 

Need more evidence? The UP Music Circle is out to prove just how important music organizations are—and just how amazing the results can be. All you have to do is head on over to Route 196, Katipunan Avenue on October 5, 2019 at 8PM for Bente OH-NO!, UP Music Circle’s 21st anniversary gig. 

 

 

Art Alexandra Lara

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