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I am a 12-year-old resident of Fairfax Station and am currently attending Robinson Secondary School. I would like to express my opinion on the proposed elimination of the elementary band and orchestra programs as a cost-cutting measure.

I think that having the band and orchestra programs in elementary school is essential for any child who wants to play an instrument or become a musician. I believe that children learn to play an instrument much more easily when they are younger, and have more of an interest in the music than when they are older. Music separates the kind, hardworking kids from the rest and puts them into a group where everybody is friends with each other.

Without the foundation of elementary school music programs, middle and high-school music programs will not be as appealing to students, as they would be more interested in other electives and afterschool activities. Music is the opposite of instant gratification because it takes many years to build up skill with whatever you are playing. Elementary school music programs give the child a head start on their musical career. Fairfax County Public Schools could eliminate some headquarters administrative positions or other functions to save money and keep the band and orchestra programs.

Peter Gunnarson, Fairfax Station