In 1980, I became an educator in the Pleasant Ridge Union School District, knowing its excellent academic reputation but also with the knowledge that education in the arts was almost nonexistent. I created the choral program at Magnolia Intermediate, and within a few years, the elementary music programs at our other schools. Music is not a frill. Music is essential to educating the “whole” student. Music stimulates both sides of the brain, is easily adapted to all styles of learners and fosters self-esteem, leadership and teamwork. Music is an integral part of educating any child and can be found in …