The Augusta school board this week will talk about a proposal to eliminate the elementary schools’ fifth- and sixth-grade band from next year’s school budget

Early musical training helps develop brain areas involved in language and reasoning. Music study enhances teamwork skills and discipline. In order for a band to sound good, all players must work together toward a single goal, the performance, and must commit to learning music, attending rehearsals and practicing.

I have great concerns about students starting band in seventh grade. Starting an instrument as a teenager is really difficult. The number of interested students will be drastically reduced. This will not create a level playing field for our musicians when they attend various competitions and music camp. Eventually, this will reduce participation in the Cony Band.

I urge others to join me and show their support for future and current Augusta student musicians be attending the meeting, scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at 1 City Center. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/SaveAugustaMusic.

Heidi E. BowdenFormer music studentAugusta

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