They say desperate times call for desperate measures. But in this time of economic uncertainty, the desperate cutting of budgets for arts funding and, by extension, all types of arts education, including music, is not prudent. That is the consensus of several national and local studies, which converge on a single point--that the arts actually can elevate a floundering economy. Among the findings: A 2001 National Governors Association (NGA) Center for Best Practices report makes a solid case for not slashing support for the arts when the Dow dips. A 2007 Harris Interactive poll connects the dots between music, lifelong educational attainment, and higher income. And a 2008 study by the Texas Cultural Trust goes so far as to declare "an undeniable connection between support for the arts, a vibrant creative sector, and a strong economy."