"Ask a CEO what they are looking for in an employee and they say they need people who understand teamwork, people who are disciplined, people who understand the big picture. You know what they need? They need musicians." – Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, MENC Centennial Congress, Orlando, Florida, June 2007.
Music is central to American life, but music’s place in American education is unclear today. Many worry that the No Child Left Behind Act is driving music out of the curriculum, while others say that basic reading and math should come first. There is also evidence that high-quality music education can keep students engaged in school and lift their learning in all subjects. The Center for American Progress and the Music National Service Initiative are honored to host Governor Mike Huckabee in a presentation about the value of music education—not only as a strategy for improving student achievement but also as a way to strengthen the long-term health of our nation’s communities and economy. The discussion will focus on ways to expand quality music education including MusicianCorps—a program that would recruit college graduate musicians to serve as educators and mentors in disadvantaged schools and communities.
Introductions:
Robert Gordon, Senior Fellow, Center for American Progress
Kiff Gallagher, Founder & CEO, Music National Service initiative
Opening remarks:
Congressman Joseph Crowley (D-NY)
Remarks and Moderation by:
John Podesta, President and CEO, Center for American Progress
Featured Speaker:
Governor Mike Huckabee (R-Ark.)
Following his remarks, Gov. Huckabee will perform for the audience.
Click here to RSVP for this event
Location
Center for American Progress 1333 H St. NW, 10th Floor Washington, DC 20005
Map & Directions Nearest Metro: Blue/Orange Line to McPherson Square or Red Line to Metro Center