In low-income areas, the lack of music education is particularly obvious. Schools in these areas frequently lack the resources to offer music lessons or to hire competent music instructors. Children of color are more likely to live in low-income regions and attend schools with fewer resources, thus this disparity disproportionately affects them.
For families who want their children to have access to music instruction, private music lessons may be the answer. Private instruction, on the other hand, can be prohibitively expensive, costing anything from $30 to $100 per hour. This price is simply too great to bear for many families.
Private classes might be worthwhile for kids who are passionate about music, despite their high expense. Private instruction offers individualized attention and may be customized to fit the needs of each student. Children can advance more quickly and get a better grasp of music by doing this.
Therefore, why are music lessons so pricey? One factor is that most music teachers hold advanced degrees in music and have years of experience perfecting their art. Private classes sometimes call for specific tools, such pianos or other instruments, whose upkeep might be costly. Private instructors frequently operate as independent contractors, which means they are in charge of their own health insurance and retirement funds.
Being a singer might be a good alternative for those who love music and want to create a profession out of it. Opera to pop music is performed by singers, also referred to as vocalists. Singers receive a wide range of compensation, which varies according on their level of experience, the genre of music they perform, and the size of their audience. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that in 2019, singers made an average yearly salary of $30,400.
It is obvious that not all Americans have equal access to music education. While some families may find a solution in individual courses, others may find the high cost to be a deterrent. To ensure that all children have the chance to learn about and enjoy music, society must grant financing for music education programs in schools, especially in low-income communities.