Music, the soundtrack of humanity; an entity appreciated and recognized in all cultures of the world and a fundamental characteristic of the human being. Listening to, learning to create and understanding music has always had intrinsic value for individuals as well as society as a whole. It would be impossible to imagine a world without music, regardless of personal interpretations of its meaning. Music is heard and permeates almost every aspect of life; from conception, a heartbeat maintains the rhythm of life itself. Mothers sing lullabies to their unborn children, composers brighten up films with colorful musical arrangements, and operas express emotions where words fall short. First, let's consider the many ways that music benefits humans, without being specific to life's myriad responsibilities. Music provides motivation, a key element to accomplishing any task such as exercising, studying, and even alarm clock music, initiating the start of another day. Creativity and self-expression are two other avenues in which music contributes positively to human nature. Music has the power to inspire, alleviate and console all human emotions and provide a successful career for performing artists. The list of positive influences that music generates in the world is endless and should not be taken for granted, especially when evaluating its role from an educational perspective. Among the facets of culture that music encompasses, it is education that is of capital importance for the future. of music. When considering the key elements of a well-rounded education, many can argue that English, mathematics, science and social studies are the main focal points of study and learning. With the economic crisis impacting funds...... middle of paper ......g music, sharpen the mind. " Scientific American 303.5 (2010): 16. Academic Search Premier. EBSCO. Web. March 3, 2011. Hodges, Donald A. and Mary Luehrsen. "The Impact of a Funded Research Program on Music Education Policy." » Arts Education Policy Review 111.2 (2010): 71-78. Huckabee, Mike. MENC Centennial Conference, Orlando, Florida, June 2007. Web February 24, 2011. Kantrowitz, Barbara and Connie Leslie. “Reading, Writing, Rhythm.” Newsweek 129.15 (1997): 71. EBSCO Web. February 24, 2011. “MUSIC: AT THE HEART OF EDUCATION.” 56. Perret, Peter and Janet Fox A Well-Tempered Mind: Using Music to Help Children Listen and Learn New York: Dana Press (March 24).).. 2011.