The importance of music education in schools

My son is in 8th grade band. Last night the high school band had an event where they introduced the high school band program to the 8th graders and their parents. One of the points they made was that nearly all of the high school band members had a GPA of at least 3.5 (B+/A-) or higher and were in Advanced Placement Classes. This had me thinking about the connection between music education and academic achievement. Here are a few videos on the subject. I would love to hear your thoughts.

(video)

Why is music education important?

"We use to think the smart kids took music; but what we found is that music makes smart kids"

(video)

Did you know that music education is important for your child? Students in high school music programs have higher test scores and cognitive development. A U.S. Department of Education study found that those who reported consistent involvement in instrumental music over the middle and high school years show significantly higher levels of mathematics proficiency by grade 12. (This observation holds regardless of students' socioeconomic status.)