Northampton's Website touts our town as an arts and entertainment destination, and celebrates its status as the "Number One Best Small Arts Town in America." Yet, once again, instrumental and choral music at our excellent high school face the prospect of elimination. Only this time, that prospect is more than a possibility, it appears to be a near certainty.

Anyone who has attended a high school concert, or a football game halftime show, can attest to the talent and professionalism of our music program and the dedication of its teachers and staff. Imagine what the school would be like without it. Imagine what the town would be like without it.

Without supporting our high school music program in difficult economic times, our community loses a defining element and a badge of distinction. Our elected officials should remember this when weighing the difficult budget choices that confront them.

Ray and Shelly DeMeo

Florence