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in which I work. My use of culturally relevant pedagogy provides students with
learning experiences as well as a place of belonging where they feel safe, seen, and
heard through multicultural songs and activities.
One of the units that defines my teaching is my drum circle unit. As detailed
in a prior DKG article (Vinnard, 2018), quantitative data showed higher student
achievement by African American students in the program: a 10% increase in
mathematics and a 6% increase in English language arts. The study also supported
the idea that drumming accelerates physical healing, boosts the immune system,
and has calming and focusing effects. Additionally, drumming proves beneficial
to disabled students in the areas of motor strength and control, speech and
communication, social skills, emotional expression, and cognition.

STEAM and Jobs for Tomorrow

Music education contributes to STEAM and computer science programs. I
partner with educators at my schools to create interdisciplinary lessons that include
all STEAM subjects: science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. I
incorporate those subjects with my music instruction by utilizing music education
computer software programs to create music worksheets that reinforce what is
learned in science and mathematics.
Although the letter A (arts) in STEAM is sometimes left out of the important
initial interdisciplinary model (STEM), the arts lend well to interdisciplinary work.
For example, a strong correlation exists between music and mathematics:
Music and math are deeply intertwined, even though it may seem that they
are separate subjects. When you study music, you may notice that math is
present there. Math gives you information about the rhythm, the measure,
the beats, and how to sing or play that song. Fractions and ratios are very
important to music, but also math. (Bosk, 2021)
The students in my classes participate in musical activities that engage the parts
of the brain that bridge intellect and creativity. Studies have shown that the arts are
scientific, technological, creative, and mathematical in their own natures. They also
help with jobs of tomorrow as creativity is the skill most sought by employers.
Conclusion

Music education offers health and literacy benefits, helps to reduce chronic
absenteeism, aids in closing the achievement gap, and contributes to STEAM and
computer science programs that lead to jobs for tomorrow. Because participation in
the arts shows a demonstrably positive effect on students’ graduation rates, pursuit
of higher education, and overall academic achievement, why not invest more in
music and other arts education programs?

Valerie Vinnard, M.M., is a National Board Certified Teacher, California Music Educator Association (CMEA) Award
winner, two-time winner of the California State Organization Area Professional Service Award, and president of Delta
Epsilon Chapter in California State Organization. Vinnard utilizes her art—writing, photography, and singing—to
promote the benefits of music education in schools. VVinnard@lbschools.net

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