Sample Letter to Congressperson 

I am writing to offer my support and assistance as you work on issues of mutual concern in the Congress.  As a concerned citizen, one issue that is a priority for me is the education of our nation's children.   I understand the importance of a quality education for all of America's children.  A quality education is the primary means of preparing our young people to succeed in the business world and in life as well.  We also know first hand that the inclusion of music in the school curriculum is integral to ensuring quality.

In today's society, we now have scientific research that supports the anecdotal evidence we have long embraced on the connection between music education and success in school and in life.

Recent studies indicate that music education dramatically enhances a child's ability to solve complex math and science problems.

Students who participate in music programs score significantly higher on standardized tests while at the same time developing self-discipline, communication, and teamwork skills. They also are less likely to be involved in gangs, drugs, or alcohol abuse and have better attendance in school.

This evidence underscores the need to make certain that all children, whether privileged or "at-risk",  are given opportunities to reap the benefits of music education. For many children, if music instruction is not offered in school, they likely will never receive it and will be at a disadvantage throughout their academic lives.

As Congress considers legislation to improve our education system, I hope we can work together to incorporate initiatives that encourage and strengthen school music programs. Specifically, I ask that you include legislative language that:

1. Reinforces the concept of arts education as a core academic subject and an important component of every child's education;

2. Strengthens authorized arts education activities by providing explicitly for the involvement of arts educators;

3. Directs more funding to schools for arts education programs; and

4. Makes certain that funding for after-school arts activities is not used to supplant or replace in-school arts education programs that are part of the regular curriculum.

Thank you for your consideration of this important educational concern. I hope we can count on your support.