Introduction

Music, a universal art form, communicates emotions, preserves culture, and connects people through melody, rhythm, and harmony. Its value extends beyond entertainment, enriching emotional well-being, fostering creativity, and driving economic growth. Yet, its significance is not always fully recognised, particularly in areas such as education, funding, and career support, where its potential is often sidelined. While music is celebrated during national events and as a source of personal enjoyment, there are clear gaps in how its broader benefits are acknowledged and supported. This essay argues that while music holds substantial value in my society, its appreciation remains limited by systemic and cultural factors, requiring a more holistic approach to harness its full potential.

Evidence of appreciation for music in society

Music is deeply embedded in the cultural and social fabric of society, celebrated in various forms that highlight its emotional and cultural significance. Through national events and popular culture, music serves as a unifying force and an expression of identity.

• For example, Singapore’s National Day Parade often features iconic songs like “Home” by Kit Chan, which evoke national pride and foster a sense of unity among citizens. These events underscore the role of music in bringing communities together.

Similarly, the popularity of streaming platforms like Spotify demonstrates a widespread appreciation for music as a source of personal enjoyment.

• Local artists such as JJ Lin have garnered global recognition, showcasing Singapore’s musical talent and fostering cultural pride.

These examples reflect how music is valued for its emotional and cultural contributions. However, this appreciation often remains confined to entertainment and celebratory contexts, with limited recognition of its broader societal and developmental roles.

Areas where music is undervalued

Despite its evident importance, music is frequently undervalued in areas such as education, funding, and career recognition. This underappreciation reflects systemic priorities that often treat music as secondary to other pursuits.

• For instance, in Singapore, music education is often considered supplementary rather than essential, receiving less emphasis compared to STEM subjects. Schools typically allocate fewer resources to arts programmes, which impacts initiatives such as the Music Elective Programme (MEP). Although the MEP was introduced to nurture musical talent, its participation rates remain low due to limited outreach and the prioritisation of traditional academic subjects. Furthermore, students often face pressure from parents and educators to prioritise more “practical” subjects over pursuing music as a career.

Additionally, local musicians face significant challenges due to inadequate funding and a lack of platforms to showcase their work.

• For example, independent artists often struggle to secure sponsorships or performance slots at major events, unlike international acts that dominate commercial venues. Even initiatives like the Esplanade’s Mosaic Music Series or Baybeats cater primarily to niche audiences, leaving many local musicians without consistent opportunities to grow their presence.

These examples highlight how institutional and societal barriers undermine the value of music, constraining its growth and accessibility despite its potential to enrich lives and communities.

The benefits of recognising the value of music

A greater music appreciation can yield significant benefits, enhancing individual well-being, strengthening cultural identity, and contributing to economic development. By acknowledging music’s multidimensional value, society can unlock its full potential.

• For example, music therapy programmes like Singapore’s “Sing Out Loud” initiative have demonstrated the ability of music to improve mental health and cognitive function, particularly among the elderly in nursing homes. Such initiatives show that music can serve therapeutic and emotional needs.

• Additionally, local music festivals like Baybeats highlight the economic benefits of supporting music. These events not only showcase talent but also stimulate the creative economy by attracting audiences and generating revenue for related industries.

These examples illustrate the transformative impact of music when its value is recognised and supported, underscoring its importance in fostering societal progress.

Reasons for the lack of appreciation for music

The undervaluation of music stems from cultural attitudes, economic considerations, and practical constraints. These factors collectively shape perceptions that diminish music’s significance relative to other priorities.

• For instance, in Singapore, the pragmatic focus on academic and career success often marginalises the arts, leading to the perception that music lacks practical value. Parents and educators may encourage students to pursue traditional career paths over creative fields, stifling interest in music as a profession.

Moreover, economic pressures can deprioritise investment in non-essential sectors like music.

• During the COVID-19 pandemic, funding for the arts was often redirected to urgent economic recovery efforts, further diminishing support for music.

These examples reveal systemic challenges that perpetuate a lack of music appreciation, reflecting deeper societal values that prioritise practicality over artistic enrichment.

Strategies to foster greater appreciation for music

To address the undervaluation of music, targeted strategies in education, funding, and public engagement are essential. These efforts can bridge the gap between recognition and support for music’s value.

• For example, countries like Finland integrate music education into their core curriculum, demonstrating how early exposure fosters a lifelong appreciation for the arts. Singapore could adopt similar models, emphasising music’s cognitive and emotional benefits.

• Additionally, government initiatives like the National Arts Council’s grants provide financial support to musicians, enabling them to thrive and gain recognition. Hosting community events such as music workshops can also raise public awareness and encourage active participation in the arts.

These strategies highlight how society can cultivate a deeper appreciation for music, ensuring its continued relevance and impact.

Conclusion

Music is an invaluable aspect of society, offering cultural enrichment, emotional relief, and economic opportunities. However, its appreciation remains limited by systemic and cultural barriers that undervalue its broader contributions. By fostering music education, increasing funding, and promoting public engagement, society can address these gaps and unlock the full potential of music. Ultimately, music’s value lies not only in its entertainment but in its ability to inspire, heal, and unite. Recognising and supporting this value is essential for building a more holistic and culturally vibrant society.