Program is music to our ears
We all know the tune – when budgets tighten in public schools, art and music programs are often first on the chopping block.
That’s a pity, because giving students the opportunity to learn about these areas can instill a lifelong appreciation for them, and unlock creativity that can boost test scores and enhance learning, even if a student is not bound to be the next Mozart or Renoir.
For that reason, we were heartened by the story that appeared last week in the Observer-Reporter about a harp program that has taken root at Ringgold Middle School in Finleyville. Harp programs aren’t exactly a dime a dozen, so participating students are part of something special. They will be showing off their skills at a Christmas concert Thursday at 7 p.m.
The roots of the harp classes go back 15 years, when teacher Melanie Sandrock developed an interest in the harp and a couple of students heard her plucking the strings on one. They asked Sandrock to teach them. From there, they raised enough money to purchase eight harps. Now, the school has 40.
That the celestial sound of harps is ringing through the halls of Ringgold Middle School, and the school is standing behind this program, is indeed music to our ears.