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English: WASHINGTON- At the invitation of Congressman Randy “Duke” Cunningham (R-San Diego), Sesame Street’s Elmo and Joe Lamond, President and CEO of NAMM - the International Music Products Association headquartered in Carlsbad, CA, testified before the Appropriations Labor Health & Human Services Subcommittee regarding the importance of music education.

Mr. Lamond of Carlsbad, CA, joined by Elmo, detailed the importance of music instruction in every child’s core school curriculum. NAMM members believe that music education is an essential component of a quality education and that it should be made available to all children in the public schools.

Research is demonstrating an unmistakable link between music learning and academic achievement. Schools that have music programs have experienced dramatic results in student performance in all subjects and improved attendance records. Students who participate in music score significantly higher on standardized tests and are less likely to be involved in gangs, drugs, or alcohol abuse. Unfortunately, too many children have no access to music programs in school. Only 25% of all eighth-graders have the opportunity to participate in music class.

“Music enriches our lives,” said Congressman Cunningham, “We all have personal stories to share about our experiences with music. When I was a fighter pilot in Vietnam, I used to listen to music before my missions to help me prepare and focus. I have also been lucky enough to develop relationships with musicians like Peter Yarrow, Johnny Cash, Steven Stills and Skunk Baxter.”

“I want to thank Joe Lamond for his dedication to children and music education. I have worked closely with NAMM over the years to help bring music to more children. As we debate funding for education, it is important that we put federal dollars into programs that increase achievement and results. We know that music education will do just that,” Cunningham added.