A Comparison of State Assessment Scores Between Music and Nonmusic Students

Abstract

For several years, an emphasis on standardized testing in certain subjects has often resulted in competition for student time and scheduling choices that may not favor music classes. However, a great deal of literature exists to indicate that music students achieve more success than nonmusic students on a variety of academic measures. The purpose of this study was to conduct a statewide comparison of test scores for students involved in voluntary music classes or ensembles and students not involved in such activities. Scores from almost 7,000 students in the three grades tested by the state (5, 8, 11) were generated from a variety of districts throughout the state. Significantly higher scores were found for students involved in music compared with students not involved in music. It would seem music students did not have a disadvantage on the state test, despite the time they spent on musical activities.