Music Education at Milton Hershey School is Changing Lives

By David Knott, Middle Division Music Teacher

March is a month when celebrations and reflections on music education take center stage across the country. Here at Milton Hershey School, our dedicated music educators ensure that this time is not just about learning notes, but about celebrating, collaborating, communicating, expressing, and elevating ourselves—all in a fun and vibrant manner, one note at a time.

We understand that music is not just a hobby; it’s a fundamental language of human nature and emotion. It’s what connects us, inspires us, and moves us.

“I just love starting my day playing the saxophone,” said seventh-grade band student Josh Ferguson. “It is just the best.”

That’s why we believe in the unique power of music education to create a community that’s rewarding and ambitious–where students are excited to discover the next step on their journey to success. So, let’s embrace March and revel in the magic of music education together.

Healing Harmonies: Music as a Catalyst for Personal Growth

In a world filled with challenges, music acts as a beacon of hope for our students. It’s more than just melodies; it’s a safe space for expression and healing. Through the magic of music, our students find solace, discover themselves, and embark on a journey of personal growth.

“I’m very pleased that I was able to get the experience I did, because now in Senior Division I started writing pieces and producing my own music based on some of the fundamentals I learned back in Middle Division,” said 11^th-grader Preston Barnett. “I would say band has had a positive impact on me.”

Empowering Students for Success: Career Readiness in the World of Music

Beyond the music stands lies a world of endless possibilities for our students. Music education isn’t just about playing instruments; it’s about equipping our students with the skills they need to succeed in the 21st century. From leadership to problem-solving, our music program prepares students for whatever the future holds.

“Band has helped me a lot. It helps me focus, and in Middle Division we were like a family in jazz band, and you had something to look forward to,” said AnJ’ru Kater, a ninth-grader

The Melody of Tomorrow: Crafting a Future of Promise

As we celebrate Music in Our Schools Month, let’s take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey of our students. At MHS, all students in pre-K through 12th grade participate in the Visual and Performing Arts program and have access to classes, activities, and performing groups. MHS offers a variety of bands, choirs, and lessons in various instruments—even covering the cost of instruments and equipment.

Through the healing harmonies of music, they’ve discovered their voices, their strengths, and their potential. And as they graduate from our music program, they’re not just musicians. They become leaders, innovators, and pioneers, ready to make their mark on the world.

“MHS saw the musical value in me, instilling skills like listening, positivity, and drive to endure my success into my college years,” said Derek Proctor ’17, a Middle Division music teacher.

Join us in celebrating the transformative power of music education at Milton Hershey School. Together, let’s inspire a future where every note matters and every student has the chance to experience a Breakthrough.