“It is widely known and accepted that children that take music courses in our schools do better in their other subjects such as math, reading, history, geography and other courses. Music not only helps them in those subjects, but also increases their social skills and gives them a more rounded level of education. So let’s all do what we can to keep music in our educational systems...it’s up to us!”

"Some of my purest moments playing guitar were in after school guitar lessons taught by Ms. Rorro, my 3rd grade teacher. But this was a Catholic school in Fairbanks, Alaska, where the arts were celebrated. I'd hate to be a 3rd grader in a public school in California now, where it seems little effort is made to encourage kids to appreciate music. C'mon everybody, our kids could be the future Ellington's, Ray's, Cash's and Flea's!"

“As an active member of school music programs throughout my childhood, I know firsthand how important creative expression through music can be. The benefits of music education are many, from engaging students in the learning process to experiencing interdisciplinary study. I hope that all of our students, both now and in the future, have the chance to experience these valuable opportunities for learning and expression.”

“When I was in high school I can tell you that playing the guitar was my salvation. I wish there had been more musical programs available, especially in the field of contemporary music. I am so pleased to be a part of California Music Project where I can give back and be a part of "passing it on" to the next generation of young musicians. Music education is something I feel is essential, and that it plays an important part in the development of our kids. We need more authentic originals, and keeping music education alive in our schools is an important part of this process.”

“Every God-given child should have the right to music education in school, just like math, science and reading. The truth is that by denying children music and arts in school we are, in fact, leaving every child behind,” said Michelle Shocked. "Parents and communities need to put pressure on every school board and legislator to make sure we don't let this continue.”

I went to a public school that had a vibrant and high quality K through 12 music education program. It is because of this education that I have been able to pursue music as a profession. I wasn't alone. Many went on to be professional musicians, but everyone in the school benefited from simply having a well-rounded education that led to well-rounded adult lives. It is an embarrassment to me that my grandparents and parents supported schools of this quality, but my generation, the one that directly benefited from their investment, has allowed music to be removed from the schools. That is why I am supporting efforts to bring back music education, bigger and better than ever, to the public schools of California. It's our turn to "make a difference".

"I was in school only a few years ago and I spent a lot of time doubting my ability to ever succeed as a professional musician because while every other career was touted as being entirely possible, being a musician was viewed as something that should be left behind with playing house. It wasn't until I took a course in college on career opportunities in the music industry that I realized that music is just as serious and just as complicated as a job in any other field. It is also just as possible as any other career goal. Unfortunately, kids like me were limited to self-education for almost the entirety of our schooling. I think that a child with a guitar should be taken just as seriously as a child with a toy doctor kit. I would have had a lot more confidence as a kid if I had a place to develop my talents instead of feeling like I was terrible at every subject because writing lyrics and music would get me nowhere."

"Music education in schools is not simply about training up the next generation of musicians. Its about offering young people the opportunity to express themselves through artistic discipline no matter what they grow up to be. By removing music from public schools we are short-changing future generations from reaching their potential and expanding their minds. And shortchanging them is like shortchanging us. Soon they will be the ones making the decisions about our lives."

“When I was a kid, the music education that I received via the public school system gave me sanctuary in an otherwise chaotic life. With music now cut from most California public school budgets, kids are being shortchanged from one of the most important parts of the education process, and for some kids like me, that music education means everything. I hope for all kids in California to have the opportunity for a music education.

“School bus trips to The Shrine Auditorium to hear the LA Philharmonic, playing in recorder bands, and singing in the a cappella choir in high school, have given me a life long love of music, and have fed my soul. These are just part of the wonderful memories I have because of the excellent music education I received in the 50's in LA. Let's give our kids the quality music education that we had.”

“I am a native Californian and a product of public school education in our state. As I look at the educational opportunities offered children today compared to what was offered my generation, one for which school music and art played a vital role, I am concerned that my children did not and my grand children will not receive the same quality education available to me in the 1960's and early '70s. To a music educator who knows the value the arts play in all of our lives, this is a tragic truth. Now is the time for all of us to reverse the trend in California and bring back a quality education that includes music and the arts.”

"I can't even imagine being young without music education. I have so many great memories associated with music experiences, through my formal and informal education. We know that music taught in schools increases brain power. Music also gives a sense of belonging and builds self worth. What kid doesn't deserve that? If kids don't learn music in school many never will. That thought is heartbreaking to me."

“It’s a shame that we are depriving so many California children of the benefits of music in schools. We all need to demand better of our school boards and legislators so every child has the chance to develop to their fullest with a well-rounded education including the arts.”

“I am writing to ask you to join me in helping young people embrace the creative spirit. Children need to learn how to communicate their ideas through music and the arts, regardless of their ethnicity and background. Playing music is a wonderful opportunity for young people to experience self-expression and greater self-esteem. Studies have shown that playing music enhances a young person’s ability to learn and improve their scores on SAT tests. We need to fund and further promote existing music programs in areas that have been affected by government cutbacks. These programs are in desperate need of our assistance.”