Why I chose my platform:
Ever since I was very young, I have always been surrounded by music in my home. I remember in my early years hearing my mom, sister, and cousin playing the piano and I instantly wanted to be just like them. I wanted to play the piano just as well as they did. When I was 6 years old, after begging my mom, I was put into piano lessons. I loved it. In fact, I loved it so much that my mom decided to take me to Salt Lake City to see a real concert pianist perform. Never in my life have I been so inspired! I remember coming home that weekend and practicing for hours! My parents even had to lock the piano in order to have a moment of silence! When I was 4 years old, my mom signed me up for a group called "Harmony Kids." We learned to sing, dance, and act, and I loved every minute of it! I honestly don't think that I understood what impact the arts would have in my life at that age, but as I have grown and matured, I have realized that the consequence of having music in my life has been, and will continue to be a great blessing to me. Music has allowed me to have a deeper understanding of what life is really about, and has been essential for me academically, and emotionally. Because of my love for music, I have found so much joy in sharing that love with others. Sadly, it is evident that in today's society, music, arts, and creativity are less valued. After researching, I found that students involved in music have higher test scores, are critical thinkers, self disciplined, and have higher math and reading abilities. Playing in an orchestra, or singing in a choir teaches teamwork, and leadership. However, it is not just academically that music helps society. Confucius said, "Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without." Throughout time, music has solved war, and has put an end to hatred. It is my belief that if music could become available to every child in our nation, the generations to come would be much more sensitive to what it means to be human. Music in our education is not necessary if we believe that every child should major in music. However, it becomes necessary when our motivation is to give more hope, more compassion, kindness, more good -in short, more life.
Taking Action:
I decided to start with simple actions. I learned enough music to perform 1 hour recitals at local assisted living homes. The reaction I received was small, but meant so much to me. I was able to see the elderly reflect on early memories, as they heard familiar tunes. After every performance, I would always have people come up to me and give me a huge hug and tell me how thankful they were for me not being afraid to share my love for music with them.
I contacted district 91's music office, and was able to talk with Jennifer Korenke, a former Miss Idaho Falls, and an elementary school music teacher. She invited me to help her teach ukulele to the 5th and 6th graders at West Side Elementary School. I was so thrilled that she was willing to let me help! I started going to Westside School every Wednesday, and I specifically worked with the kids who needed more help to learn this new instrument. I instantly fell in love with all of those sweet children who were so excited to learn, and let music impact their lives. But I also learned so much. I learned that most kids don't have the chance to have music in their homes, or even learn an instrument. After learning this, I realized even more so how critical it is that music is in our public schools. These experiences, though few, highlight and evidence our nation's need for music. As Miss Idaho Outstanding Teen, I have a goal that the people I touch will be inspired to share their own love and talents to those in need, and that our community will understand the importance of music, how it can influence, and give people the feeling of belonging. I will continue to teach children music so that they can have this influence for themselves. While working with the Idaho Falls Youth Arts Council, I will also be privileged with a mentoring position, teaching choir and violin to children who would benefit from music in their lives. With a partnership with the VH1 Save the Music Foundation, my abilities to share my passion will be expanded at a national level, as I support and plan events that will help raise money to revive America's public schools.
Through my experiences, I have discovered not only the fullness that music adds to one's life, or the joy I feel when I serve others, but that our nation is in great need of individuals who will commit to put their talents and gifts to the service of society. My gift to give is music.
Always,
Melanie Ross
MIOT 2011
