Klarinet Archive - Posting 000391.txt from 1996/02

From: Nick Winkler <Nick.Winkler@-----.NET>
Subj: Re: school-owned instruments
Date: Wed, 14 Feb 1996 12:40:59 -0500

>Pardon my brimstone... but I'm an elementary music teacher,
>and I can see the possible effects of school-owned instruments first-hand.
>People value things which cost them dearly.

Gregory, I taught in junior high for many years, and I agree
wholeheartedly with your assessment. Kids need either a financial
stake or "sweat equity" to make them value what they have.

The principal, counsellors, and music staff commented many times on
how the parental investment in instruments helped to hold the music
program together. Every time the district tried to do away with
instrumental music (how else is there to say that?), the school board
caved after numerous calls from irate parents who had spent $$$ to
buy an instrument.

As you noted, there is nothing like a little sacrifice to whet and
maintain one's interest. Congress should also take note!

-Nick-