Music in the classroom

I got a beautiful new smartboard in my classroom a few weeks back, and it has completely revolutionized my school day. Not only can I now show awesome videos, newspaper clips, and other awesome multimedia resources to enhance student learning, but, it has made MUSIC an integral part of our day, which make me and all my kids much calmer and happier.

With pandora stations pre-created for different moods, the kids start the day with the Miles Davis station, and quietly shuffle in, eat breakfast, put their things away, and copy down their homework. During independent reading, I go with some Joni Mitchell, Tracy Chapman, or Ani Difranco. During focusing sessions, Chopin is a favorite. And, depending on my moods, sometimes I'll throw in some Keller Williams, afro-funk or thievery corporation. Lisa Hannigan has been this week's addition.

Today, during silent reading time, after I had turned on the music, J.U came up to me and said, "Ms. Sadek? Can you play Tracy Chapman's "talking bout a revolution? I'm reading an Obama book and I think it would get me into it." This made my heart swell just a little.

Not only is the class calmer and happier, but they are connecting their music to their reading in unexpected ways. I mean, who doesn't want music integrated into their everyday lives?