Art, music and physical education classes be could cut from Broward County elementary schools next year to help the district close an anticipated $100 million gap in the budget.

That news struck a sour note at Coral Glades High School Tuesday night as the winter percussion team practiced for an upcoming competition.

It takes years of practice to make music like Evan Swift, who has playing the drums since he was in the 4th grade. Those music classes laid the foundation of his musical talents.

“If I didn’t have those basic, starting out tools, I probably wouldn’t be playing right now," Swift told Local 10's Roger Lohse.

On Tuesday, the school board learned that music, art, and physical education may have to be cut from all 140 elementary schools next year to help balance the budget.

The district said it simply can't afford all the extra teachers. Superintendent James Notter said that after three consecutive years of state underfunding, there’s not much else the district can cut.

“And that’s what we’re looking to do -- focusing on our teaching and learning component. And when you do that, what can you shave off and still keep the integrity?" Notter said.

The proposal provides a few options. For example, 'specials’ instructors could share their time between four schools in their area or the teachers could try to integrate the 'specials’ curriculum into their daily lessons.

There's no word on exactly how many teaching positions will be cut, or whether the cuts can be handled through attrition without layoffs.

Evan Swift seems to have a bright future in music. His dad hopes district leaders will find away for the beat to go on.

“It would be terrible if they weren’t exposed to that at an early age. I don’t think it would be good," said Alan Swift.

Board members will discuss the budget cuts at their next workshop on March 23rd.