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Aaron Copland wrote that, "Music is in a continual state of becoming." In elementary school our first interaction with instrumental music occurs. During this time we begin the journey of understanding what it means to be a musician. This involves instrument specific technique, notation, ensemble playing, creativity, organization, responsibility, higher-order thinking, problem solving, and the ability to emotionally interpret the notes on the page. This deciding stage of life lays the foundation for a child's relationship with the arts. Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, a master string teacher, summarizes this thought. "Teaching music is not my main purpose. I want to make good citizens. If a child hears fine music from the day of his birth, and learns to play it himself, he develops sensitivity, discipline and endurance. He gets a beautiful heart."
