Celebrating North Carolina’s Musical Legacy During National Arts in Education Week
North Carolina has a rich history of fostering musical education, particularly through its marching bands and orchestras, which are vital pillars of our state’s vibrant arts education culture.
In 2010, Congress passed House Resolution 275, officially designating the week starting with the second Sunday in September as National Arts in Education Week. This special week highlights the vital role the arts play in education, offering communities nationwide the opportunity to advocate, educate, and celebrate the transformative power of the arts.
From high school programs to professional ensembles, these institutions not only provide students with technical skills but also help develop discipline, teamwork, and creativity—qualities that resonate far beyond the stage or field.
Marching Bands: A Legacy of Sound and Spirit
One of the standout traditions in our state’s musical education landscape is the prominence of high school marching bands. Each year, North Carolina’s bands showcase incredible talent, dedication, and community spirit.
To honor Arts in Education Week, two North Carolina high school marching bands meet annually at Halifax Lawn in downtown Raleigh to showcase their talents and celebrate the importance of music in education. This year, Green Level High School Marching Band from Cary and the Cleveland Performing Arts Ensemble from Clayton came together to perform in front of enthusiastic audiences.
These students not only displayed their musical prowess but also embodies the spirit of collaboration and artistry that lies at the heart of arts education. Their performances weren’t just about hitting the right notes—they demonstrated the creativity, resilience, and teamwork that arts education cultivates in students.
Watch these videos to relive this year’s incredible performance from Cleveland Arts Performance Ensemble and Green Level High School Marching Band, where the dedication and energy of these young musicians truly shine:
Orchestras: Building a Foundation for Lifelong Appreciation
While marching bands often steal the spotlight during this celebratory week, orchestras also play a critical role in shaping musical talent in North Carolina. Many of our students who start in school orchestras go on to pursue music professionally, joining renowned groups such as the North Carolina Symphony or smaller regional ensembles. The discipline required in mastering string, brass, and woodwind instruments is immense, but it also builds a foundation for a lifelong appreciation of music.
For students, participation in an orchestra teaches them how to blend their sound with others, listen intently, and contribute to a larger whole. This collaborative mindset is essential not only in music but in life. Whether performing in school auditoriums, at state competitions, or in the community, orchestras contribute significantly to the cultural fabric of our state.
The Transformative Power of Music Education
Marching bands and orchestras are more than extracurricular activities—they are avenues for personal growth. In addition to nurturing musical skills, these programs instill a sense of discipline, perseverance, and self-confidence in students. When young people participate in musical groups, they gain more than just a musical education; they learn how to work together toward a common goal, developing life skills that will serve them in any future career or endeavor.
As we celebrate Arts in Education in September and throughout the year, let’s take a moment to reflect on how the arts, especially music, enrich students’ lives, broaden their horizons, and unite communities across North Carolina.
Whether through attending performances, supporting arts programs, or sharing the stories of these talented students, you can be part of the celebration.
Let’s continue to champion musical education in our schools and ensure that students in North Carolina have the opportunity to thrive in these transformative programs for years to come.