CQ.notes Joining The Best BandIn The Nation (NAPSA)—High school-aged musicians of note are being honored thanks to a national music program. They are being asked to join a band. Hershey’s Fund Raising and the National Association for Music Education (MENC) have created the Hershey’s All-USA High School Band, a national program that acknowledges the outstanding skills and accomplishments of high school musicians. These musicians are asked to balance commitments to family, academics, community and their per- **/AVEx Di * EU A new high school music pro- sonal life while maintaining a high level of commitment to their gram reinforces the idea that music is an important part of the national curriculum. students, and MENC support quality music programs in schools and have helped to develop and execute them. Hershey’s Fund Raising helps schools raise the funds to build successful music programs. Programs such as the AI]-USA High School Band serve as a resource to help teachers, students and music organizations achievetheir goals. instruments. To honor these teachers, administrators and private instructors can nominate a student for membership in the band. Members will be featured in a national promotion recogniz- ing their commitment to excellence. Nominationswill be due in March 2004 and winners will be announced in Fall 2004. Music education programs help students discover and develop their musical talents and also teach valuable skills that prepare students to be more productive in the workforce and throughoutlife. Studies show a positive correlation between academic achievement and participation in school music programs. Music students earn good grades, have fewer discipline problems andare good school and community citizens. They tend to have a better work ethic and organizational skills. These students know they need to practice hard to achieve excellence. Both Hershey’s Fund Raising “This exciting new program comes at a time when music edu- cation is recognized as a vital link to the success of our nation’s students,” said John J. Mahlmann, executive director of MENC. “Our pride in the achievements of high school musicians is shared by our partners at Hershey’s Fund Raising, and the Hershey’s All-USA High School Bandis an outstanding commitmentto celebrating the way that music in our schools makes a difference in the lives of youngpeople.” For more information, visit www.hersheysfundraising.com.
