What is Resiliency through Music Education?

Much continues to be written about people of all ages being “at-risk”. On the flip side of “at-risk” is the term, “resilient”. Resilience has been defined as the ability to bounce back after adversity such as a personal crises, or stress.

Resilience researchers have outlined a number of protective factors that appear to foster resiliency in children and adults. These factors include categories such as (1) caring and support, (2) high expectations, and (3) opportunities to participate in a meaningful way.

Music educators have a unique opportunity, in most school situations, to foster resiliency among their students during general music classes and ensemble rehearsals.