The holiday season is a time inextricably linked with music.

Christmas carols are, to so many of us, what make the season what it is. Whether you’re singing or listening, playing or dancing, songs of reverent gratitude, of peace on Earth, of fun and frivolity and of merriment of all kinds are the soundtrack of this time of year.

We’re so grateful these days to have lots of opportunities for parents and community members to participate in the love of Christmas music by attending school Christmas concerts. Some have already happened, more are yet to come, but this time of year is a time when we not only bear witness to the growth of our children, we get together as a community and celebrate that growth alongside the holiday itself.

Musical learning is an extremely valuable piece of the education experience. Young people may or may not develop a love of a new artform, and even if they don’t, they’ve still grown for trying. Music can be an outlet for expression and an opportunity for connection. It can be a way to celebrate, to grieve, to love and to learn.

Humans have been making music together since the dawn of time. As much as musical tastes might differ (including, we’ll acknowledge, the occasional Grinch who hates Christmas music—we love them too!) there’s no question that humanity is driven to create and to enjoy music.

Children who learn music learn other things better. Studies after studies show that a musical student is better at more traditionally academic subjects. It exercises a different side of the brain, it teaches collaboration and patience, it unlocks emotion and creative thought, and it is just downright fun. Whether it’s a little child learning his ABC’s to a tune or a senior student displaying years of work in a recital, music is crucial to great learning.

We’re grateful for our wonderful music teachers this time of year, too. It’s no small thing to get a bunch of third graders—nor any easier to get a bunch of freshmen—to sing together. Our music teachers might be able to form a connection with their students that may not be as easy to come by for a math or Spanish teacher. We love and appreciate these dedicated, talented educators, now and always.

So Hark! And sing along! It’s as good a time of year as any to remember and appreciate music education in our schools. See you in the auditorium.