To the editor:

The National Federation of Music Clubs (NFMC) is sponsoring National Music Week on May 4-11. I am honored to have the opportunity to acknowledge this great, powerful art called music.

As a music teacher, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful and transforming a musical background can be. Music teachers more than notes and rhythms - it teaches discipline, patience, creativity, and emotional expression. Students who study music often develop stronger listening skills, improved memory, and a deeper ability to connect with others. It shapes minds and builds confidence in a way few other disciplines can.

Twenty years ago, Roger Kasa interviewed me as a new music teacher. One question that he asked me was, “Why do you want to be a music teacher?” My answer was simply to help all my students develop a love of music. Music is something you can do your entire life. Music spreads joy to all people either performing, listening or learning about it.

Music is one of the only universal languages. No matter the culture, age, or background, music finds a way to speak to us. Even when going through times of personal trials, music never stops. Music will adapt, survive and even thrive. Music gives students the power to create lyrics, produce melodies or even songs. No matter what happens in our world, the magic of music cannot be silent and is unstoppable.

Having a background in music isn’t just about learning an instrument or reading sheet music; it’s about understanding the world and yourself through sound. Whether my students pursue music professionally or simply keep it as a lifelong passion, they carry something unstoppable within them.

Music connects us, uplifts us, and gives us a voice when words fail. That’s why I believer every student should be given the opportunity to explore it. In every beat, every lyric, and every note, there’s a story waiting to be told - and music gives us the courage to tell it.

Teresa Decker