HEADLINES » The Power of Music (December 4, 2025)

The Power of Music (December 4, 2025)

Where words fail, music speaks.” —Hans Christian Andersen

Thursday, December 4, we will host our middle school winter concert. This is a time for our middle school students to showcase all they have learned this semester in their music classes. If the small preview at Thankful Hearts was any indication of their progress, we are in for an outstanding treat. 

At James River, we believe in the power of music education. Research consistently shows that music education helps strengthen critical thinking skills, pattern recognition, and character development, such as goal-setting, persistence, and resilience. Ensemble playing requires listening, cooperation, and mutual respect—students learn to balance their individual contributions with the needs of the group. They develop confidence through performance, discover creative expression, and gain cultural awareness by exploring diverse musical traditions from around the world. But, more importantly, music is the language of joy, and our students have a unique opportunity to learn to express joy in new ways. 

I am always proud of the art our students create, whether visually or musically, and I am excited to share that with you tonight. I look forward to seeing many of you at the University of Lynchburg. 

Let’s Fly!
Jenn