Page 2 - TL Extra August 2016

2TT • FRIDAY, AUGUST 5, 2016
EXTRA ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE TRI-LAKES EDITION OF THE ARKANSAS DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE
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SOUNDS
Why music education matters
Music is a big part of the lives of many school-age children. From an early age, kids are often exposed to music through television and other forms of entertainment,
but many are not encouraged to take the next step to learn music themselves.
The benefits of music education extend far beyond getting kids to tap their toes. The Na- tional Association for Music Education lists the following benefits among the many reasons to support music education in schools.
▶Music training helps develop language skills. Studies have shown that music train- ing contributes to the physical development of the part of the left side of the brain associated with processing language. A 2005 study from researchers at Stanford University found that mastering a musical instrument may also im- prove reading skills, which can benefit students both inside and outside the classroom.
“The steps to learning music are very similar to learning a new language,” said Paul Shuffield, owner of Shuffield Music Co. in Arkadelphia. “In order to learn a new language, you must listen very carefully, you must practice it often, and you must use it regularly. The same applies to learning an instrument.”
▶Music training can improve hand-eye co- ordination. Studies have linked long-term music training to improved hand-eye coordination. That is likely connected to the motor skills chil- dren develop when playing musical instruments. Without those instruments, those motor skills may not develop as strongly.
“Learning to play an instrument requires devel- opment of a level of limb independence, coordi- nation of hands, eyes and your thought process,” Shuffield said. “The increase in brain function to coordinate and execute these processes will enhance your ability to carry out other tasks as well. Even learning an instrument later in life will increase your brain function and help you develop enhanced motor skills.
▶Music can improve self-esteem. In a study examining 117 fourth-grade students attend- ing public school in Montreal, a researcher at
Music education can help children improve self- esteem.
the University of Texas at Austin found that children who received piano lessons week- ly for three years had higher self-esteem than children who were not given piano lessons during the same period. Neither group had participated in formal music instruction be- fore the study, and students in both groups reported similar levels of self-esteem prior to participating in the study.
Shuffield said that choosing an age-appropriate instrument is important, but there are a great number of instruments that are suited for chil- dren and adults. Piano, violin, ukulele and basic percussion instruments are ideal for younger children.
“It is important to get a quality instrument, get them connected with a qualified teacher and keep the learning process fun,” Shuffield said. Remember, it’s called playing music for a reason.”
Music education can enrich the lives of young students in a myriad of ways, potentially con- tributing to them having happier, more fulfilling lives.
— Courtesy of Metro Creative with contributions by Cody Graves, Special Sections writer
ADVERTISING FEATURES
Henderson State University
1100 Henderson St. • Arkadelphia • 870-246-5000 • www.hsu.edu
OVERVIEW
Henderson State is a university that em- braces students as family and offers rigorous and relevant programs close to home and at an affordable cost. The university’s students, faculty and staff are resilient, hardworking and committed to one another — that’s what the people at HSU mean when they say, “Live Reddie at Henderson State University.”
What sets HSU apart? For faculty and staff, to “Live Reddie” means they are fully commit- ted to student success. Henderson State has consistently been recognized as one of the
nation’s most affordable small colleges, and about 90 percent of HSU’s students receive financial aid.
As “The School With a Heart,” Hender- son State embraces whom its students are and what they want to accomplish, preparing them to contribute to their community and the world. HSU’s graduates have outstanding critical-thinking, communication and prob- lem-solving skills, which lead to successful careers, fulfilling lives and a lifelong love of learning.Visit hsu.edu/LiveReddie for more information.
College of the Ouachitas
1 College Circle • Malvern • 501-337-5000 • 800-337-0266 • www.coto.edu
OVERVIEW
Founded in 1969, College of the Ouachitas offers some of the region’s best professional and technical programs. The college boasts top-quality faculty, caring staff, diversified programs and well-equipped classrooms.
ACADEMICS
As a comprehensive two-year college, COTO offers educational pathways for everyone. A variety of options are available to choose from, such as allied health/nursing, business, cosmetology, criminal justice, electrical and plumbing apprenticeships, and mechatronics. The college’s general-education courses, including its Honors College, can launch
students toward earning a high-quality bachelor’s degree. This program is a smart choice for savvy students who want to stretch scholarship dollars, family funds and financial-aid assistance. The college also offers high school alternatives through its career center at the Malvern campus, including automotive, cosmetology, criminal justice, medical office, pre- engineering and welding programs. College of the Ouachitas at Sheridan, located at 1409 S. Rock St., allows the college to better serve the residents of Grant County. The college’s Adult Education Program is available in Grant, Clark and Hot Spring counties, offering exceptional service to the students and the community.