Have you ever heard the sound of the strings or the power of instrumental music? Ever thought about playing an instrument?
You may think you’re too old or hopeless to play an instrument. But here at Kenwood, we have Mr. Ladd, who has taught music here for 13 years but has been teaching music for 50 years and will be happy to help you learn an instrument.
Mr. Ladd says he loves teaching music. From his perspective he thinks music education benefits students in a variety of ways. He shares, “Playing in an orchestra, you’re one of about 25-30 people who are working together. The biggest thing you learn is teamwork; working with other people.”
Research on PBS supports the benefits of music education. “Research has found that learning music facilitates learning other subjects and enhances skills that children inevitably use in other areas. A music-rich experience for children of singing, listening and moving is really bringing a very serious benefit to children as they progress into more formal learning,” says Mary Luehrisen, executive director of the National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation.
Some of the general benefits for playing an instrument are reducing stress, boosting mood, increasing physical coordination, and building connection with your peers.
In Kenwood, more benefits include the companionship of being a part of the school band, orchestra, or chorus. There’s the excitement of not only playing in annual concerts and at school events like the pep rally, musical, or athletic games, but also the opportunity to be recognized and participate in the All County ensembles. This year senior Destiny Imo and junior Gabriel Thomas was part of the BCPS All County Orchestra on the string Bass and violin.
Destiny is a passionate bass player. Destiny claims that getting into all county requires some time and effort, but for him it wasn’t relatively difficult. This was his second time being selected as an All County player. Destiny says he has been playing in an orchestra all four years of high school. “Orchestra is therapeutic, and it definitely helps me focus better,” he shares.
Gabriel, who plays the violin, felt it was a bit difficult to make All County, but he’s excited to make it this year. He’s been playing in an orchestra for the last seven years. “I would also recommend joining the KHS orchestra. It’s been a great experience,” he shares.
Music education comes with many benefits and opportunities. Learning how to play an instrument in school can give students a sense of purpose and belonging. Here at KHS we offer band, orchestra, and chorus for students to be part of the KHS music experience.
Hosting winter concerts is one of Kenwood High School’s well-known and yearly traditions. Because winter concerts involve singing and many instruments, Kenwood’s Choir and Band and Orchestra students prepare for months for a successful concert. To learn more or enjoy the beautiful sounds of what they produce come check out the KHS Winter Concert this Thursday December 11 at 6pm. Cost of entry is $3 for students and $5 for adults.
Sources:
Brown, Laura Lewis. “The Benefits of Music Education”. PBS Kids. PBS. 7 May 2021. Web Accessed 10 December 2025. https://www.pbs.org/parents/thrive/the-benefits-of-music-education
