Music is for Everyone!

The text below is an excerpt from the article, Stop Obsessing Over Talent posted by S. M. Demorest.  Read the full article HERE. 

Shows like "American Idol" have promoted the notion that singing is a rare ability reserved for the talented few, and that those without such talent entertain us only by being ridiculed and weeded out. 

This “talent mindset” of music runs counter to what psychologist Carol Dweck calls the “growth mindset” that is considered critical for learning: Students who view their success as a result of hard work will persevere through challenges, while students who believe their success lies with some innate ability – like “talent” – are more likely to give up.

These self-perceptions of a lack of musical talent can then become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Research shows that adults who dropped out of music as children may lose their singing skills through lack of use and opportunity. 

Kids who love music but do not think of themselves as musical could miss out on many of the social and cognitive benefits of music participation, on the experience of feeling connected to others through song. These benefits have nothing to do with talent.

Let's spread the word that singing is for everyone!  Sing at home, in the car and on the streets - our voices in all their wondrous diversity will enrich our own lives and make our community a more beautiful place to live!