Governor Roy Cooper has proclaimed March as Music In Our Schools Month in North Carolina to highlight the importance of music education.
In celebration of Music In Our Schools Month, the State Capitol will host lunchtime concerts by local student music groups Thursday, March 1 and Friday, March 2. First Lady of North Carolina Kristin Cooper will join the celebration on March 2.
“Music education shapes our children’s understanding of themselves and the world,” said Governor Cooper. “Through music, students develop skills including collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and creativity that can help them succeed in school and in life.”
Research shows that music education helps to improve student’s reading skills and to keep students engaged in school. Schools with music education programs often have higher graduation and attendance rates.
“Apart from enriching our lives, music education promotes brain development, improves academic performance, and boosts students’ confidence and social and emotional development,” said First Lady Kristin Cooper.
Musicians from local schools will perform two concerts at the State Capitol on Thursday, March 1 and Friday, March 2 featuring one choral group and one instrumental group each day. The State Capitol concert schedule is as follows:
Thursday, March 1:
- 12:10 - 12:30 p.m.: The Perfect Intentions, Overhills High School, Harnett County
- 12:40 - 1:00 p.m.: Carnage GT Advanced Honor String Orchestra, Wake County
Friday, March 2:
- 12:10 - 12:30 p.m.: aCAPella, Broughton High School, Wake County
- 12:40 - 1:00 p.m.: Enloe Magnet High School Quintet, Wake County
March has been officially designated by the National Association for Music Education for the observance of Music In Our Schools Month, a time when music education becomes the focus of schools across the nation. Throughout March, music educators and students across North Carolina will celebrate the importance of quality music programs in the lives of young people.
Read Gov. Cooper’s proclamation online here.