Music is gift for all ages that keeps on giving for years to come

I was lucky to have music early in life, piano lessons, singing in the church choir, listening to all kinds of music on NPR, but for many youngsters music starts in fifth grade.

This fall, I was blessed with the beautiful sounds of the Whitefish band concert and the ever familiar French Folk Song, Hot Cross Buns, and so many others. Yes, squeaks and honks, but beautiful and proud!

And it’s amazing how quickly our music students advance and bring tears to my daughter’s eyes at the Veteran’s Concert, and motivate my son at the Jazz/Percussion concert. Congrats to all the Whitefish students that have performed this fall.

We all need to start somewhere. Learning is often very centered around our youth, but we are never too old to start music. I watched Mr. McCrady jump right in with his middle school players on his trumpet, loving every second of it. We can learn, appreciate, and perform music our entire lives! It is such a gift that keeps on giving.

We are so lucky to have North Valley Music School, the only nonprofit community music school in Montana, located in the Flathead Valley. We serve students of all ages from across our Valley and beyond. Adult Learn to Play Guitar and Ukulele to pre-school group classes.

When thinking of gifts to give your loved ones, of all ages, consider the gift of music. Until Dec. 29 when our office closes for the holiday, if you are new to North Valley Music School, you can buy three private lessons and get one free. It is the gift that keeps on giving!

Diedre Corson is the executive director of North Valley Music School.