It is the start of a new school year, and you may be looking for more ways to make your classroom feel relaxed and inviting this year. Choosing some songs to play in the classroom may be a great way to accomplish this goal.
If you have not traditionally played music in the classroom, this may be something you should consider for this new year.
Let’s explore some of the different kinds of music you can play in your classroom and when you might want to try it out.
In addition to exploring music for background noise, you can also integrate music into lessons. Read this blog post to learn more about using music and poetry to teach figurative language.
Songs to Play in the Classroom
#1 | Instrumental Music:
Music without lyrics can be really good songs to play in the classroom, and I specifically like to use these kinds of songs during individual student work time or in the afternoon when students’ attention spans are not as good.
This kind of music is like a calm and nice background sound that helps you focus and feel relaxed. You can listen to classical songs, peaceful music, or versions of songs without words.
Instrumental music can make the classroom feel peaceful and help you concentrate better, and (let’s be totally honest) it can also make you feel less stressed. So, with that in mind, this may also be the music that you need to play during your prep time or lunch if you find yourself needing a little time to rejuvenate and just be.
#2 | Ambient and Electronic Music:
Ambient and electronic music genres offer a blend of calming melodies and subtle beats, making them suitable songs to play in the classroom for various activities. These genres can provide a steady rhythm that aids focus and encourages productivity.
I think ambient and electronic music is a good choice while students are working in groups or on art projects.
#3 | Film and Video Game Soundtracks:
If you’re looking for songs to play in the classroom that inspire storytelling and set a tone, then soundtracks will be your best friends!
Film and video game soundtracks are designed to help tell a story and set a mood. These soundtracks often feature dynamic and inspiring compositions that can stimulate creativity and imagination in the classroom. That is why I love them for times when students need to be a little more crafty or when they are writing stories.
Unfortunately, since some students may recognize the soundtrack and get distracted, you don’t necessarily want to use this kind of music all the time.
When you are wanting to incorporate soundtracks, consider a soundtrack that will align with the subject matter you’re teaching.
#4 | Nature Sounds:
Nature sounds, such as rainforest ambiance, ocean waves, or chirping birds, have a calming effect on the mind and can help create a peaceful environment.
Nature sounds can be particularly effective during individual work time, reading sessions, or relaxation exercises. There are a whole lot of websites and apps that offer customizable nature sound playlists.
Note: Since some students may listen to this kind of music to sleep, you may want to have a backup plan just in case it makes some of your students drowsy.
#5 | Brainwave Entrainment Music
We’re going to get pretty technical with this one.
Let’s talk about special music called brainwave entrainment, which can help the brain work better.
This music is made to match how the brain’s electricity works so the listener can concentrate and feel calm. This music uses binaural beats or isochronic tones, which can help the brain prepare to learn or solve problems.
This one is a little tough because not all kids will feel the same way about this kind of music, so if you want to try using these songs in the classroom, it’s a good idea to give students the choice about whether they want to listen to it or not.
Maybe try this kind of music in small doses and observe how different students react to it, or do a special activity where you play each type of music on this list and ask students to discuss how the music made them feel. Then, you can use the music with a little more information about how your students feel about it.
#6 | Personalized Playlists:
Allowing students to contribute to the classroom music selection can empower them and make them feel more connected to the classroom environment.
Encourage students to create their own playlists with music they find motivating or inspiring. This allows you to consider individual preferences and promotes a positive classroom culture where individual interests are valued!
Be aware that not every song your students choose will be appropriate, and you may have to find alternative versions (such as Kids Bop versions) of their songs to make it something you can actually use in the classroom.
I really like the idea of using student-created playlists in transitions or before and after recess or lunch.
Another idea is to use their personalized playlists as incentives or during special times throughout the day.
If there is a particular playlist that they seem to really like, you can use that playlist as a special incentive for doing tasks that you know they don’t like as much.
When you play songs in the classroom, you are adding another layer to your classroom environment and your learning space. This music can be very helpful in setting a mood/tone in the classroom and even as a way for students to gear up or wind down for an activity.
When you first start using the music, make sure that you take some deliberate time just to observe how the students react to it, and then change your usage appropriately to get the best result for your particular students!
As you add music into your classroom, you could also consider adding in these music-themed Close Reads with Mystery Pictures! This may be a fun way to add in some extra appreciation for the music you’re listening to in the classroom!
