Children are like wet cement. Whatever falls on them makes an impression.

I’ve noticed a ton of articles, stories, and reports lately about the growing lack of civility practiced in public discourse today. It’s impossible to deny the evidence - we see it every day, through every media outlet; even those who serve in our august bodies of governance seem to be unable to control their own incivility. Whether or not we are at a level of anger above and beyond any time in our collective history in this country may be debatable, but there is no doubt that vitriol is one of our most common exports right now.

I have no fresh insight into this unfortunate phenomenon, other than to say, regardless of your beliefs or point of view, that it’s always best to treat people fairly and with respect if you want to receive the same in return. My approach is to avoid those who spew froth at all ends of the spectrum and engage with all who approach our complicated world in a thoughtful and courteous way. I suspect the vast majority of you feel the same. I do not find hate entertaining, nor do I feel it is without consequence when it is linked to an individual’s opinion, and thus is protected speech.

One of the things that most concerns me about this issue is that it is natural for subsequent generations to build upon the excesses of those who came before, which leads one to worry about what the future may hold. We need to raise our children to respect and embrace reasoned debate; it is, after all, a principle on which our country was founded, but where is there room for others when you are standing (and speaking) for “absolute” right? We are burdening coming generations with quite enough right now; let’s set examples for interaction that we can be proud to pass on.

There are, in fact, many wonderful examples of positive efforts being made to prepare our children and our future for success. Here’s one that incorporates music into the mix.

I had the opportunity to attend the Ohio Music Educators Association’s (OMEA) High School Honors Event for District VII this weekend, which featured performances by an all-schools Honors Band, Jazz Ensemble and Honors Choir. The event brought together young people from 15 area high schools for just two days to form three outstanding ensembles, and to then perform challenging works with great results.

One of the real joys of music is also one of its greatest challenges: working with fellow musicians to perform in ensemble, blending sound and expression seamlessly and communicating at split-second intervals. When you see this process in action, especially in the context of the accelerated OMEA schedule, there is no doubt that studying music provides benefits far beyond personal artistic expression. Clearly you need a good work ethic and concentration skills, but you must also hone an ability to be both “in the moment” and skipping ahead at the same time. You have to discipline you mind to go beyond notes on a printed page and embrace the dynamic of those around you under the leadership of the conductor or director. It is not for the faint of heart, but like all such personal challenges, the reward is so much greater than the effort, and the effort is always worth the reward. The study and love of music helps a person grow and prepares them for success. It brings with it benefits both tangible and intangible - it is truly food for the soul.

I also wanted to thank the people who work so hard to make great events like the OMEA Honors Event come together. First of all, Tim Niederkorn, Brett Baker and Ben Richard, the chairs of the event, who worked tirelessly to ensure the best possible experience for all involved. Guest conductors Drs. Birch Browning, Scott Garlock, and Matthew L. Garrett artfully coaxed great sensitivity and expression from each of the ensembles; they truly seemed to be enjoying themselves on the dais, and their joy was echoed by their student musicians.

Finally, the greatest praise is reserved for the directors of each of the represented schools music programs who contributed so much to the preparation and participation of their students. These individuals, many of whom are carrying terrific workloads in light of continuing educational budget reductions, are the true heroes of the day. They give all they can to the benefit of their charges, and if they don’t nurture the talent, train the dynamics, and even sometimes drive the van, then none of the other efforts would matter. If you truly enjoy playing or listening to music, please thank a school music teacher.

Each of us should make every effort to provide examples like this one for future generations - working together, sharing ideas, listening and learning, open to the range of life’s lessons.

Have a great week!