Personally, I think the interest you're seeing in guitars, basses, drum
sets, etc.... is in direct correlation with the fame and fun of Rock
Band and Guitar Hero.

By the way, if you haven't played those games -- you should! They are
fun!! And as far as video games go -- they give you a real sense of
being "in a band" -- plus, they are "clean" -- no violence -- just good
musical fun!

I know that many of my students are starting to have an interest in
piano lessons and guitar lessons. The other day, I walked into Best Buy
and noticed pink guitars! Too fun!

As far as the future of music? I honestly don't know. I think in some
ways, the invention of these video games is a good thing. It keeps
"music" in the front part of people's minds. Personally, I'm a little
worried. In Oklahoma, we are going through some serious budget cuts
because of the economy. Already this had led to larger class sizes in
the regular classroom. Luckily, I"m in a district where the high school
band just won the National competition -- 2nd year in a row! I'm hoping
that administrators realized that those musicians didn't just walk into
high school wanting to play an instrument -- but that it stems from
really good elementary programs.

As always, we have to worry about budget and budget cuts. I think
that's the story of our profession.

Have a great week everyone!!

kitmusic/OK

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