Many of you are aware that certain music enhances our learning and teaching.

Depending on the purpose and type of music, we can retain more, become more receptive and our minds are relaxed.

Research shows that the type of music you listen to creates different brain wave – alpha, beta, theta and delta.

Ok, let’s see what types of music to use, why you should use these types and when it would be appropriate to use each different musical genre…

Types of Music, their Benefits and When to be Played

1. Baroque

* Baroque has the beats of a relaxed person’s heartbeat – approx 60-80 beats/minute.
* Play this music and your learner’s mind is relaxed and more alert to concentrate. It helps learners get centered and ready for the learning ahead.
* Choose music by such composers as Bach, Vivaldi, Handel and Mozart.
* Mozart’s music has also been used to help learners get higher test scores and easier to retain more information.

2. Classical

* This type is probably the most universal of music. Most of us can relate to it. It slows down the pulse & our heartbeat and even lowers blood pressure. There are many examples of classical music which is both emotional and inspirational.

3. Welcoming – Starting the Day

* Select different types of music, with about 80-90 beats.
* Use music that has positive lyrics. Perhaps tie it in with the content that you are teaching or presenting.

4. Breaks – Beginning and End

* Use music with a faster pace. This will raise their energy level.
* Another suggestion: At the start of a learning session, have a “Yes set” at the finish of the music. This where you clap “Yes” slowly initially then you get faster then a wide, open handed loud “Yes” to finish with. This just another way of putting your learners into a resourceful state.

5. Reflection

* Best to use music without lyrics.
* Select music that has approx 60-70 beats; this way your learners can focus more on their feelings, the learning process and their thoughts.

Bottom line?…Start experimenting!… Start with music that is familiar to you and your learners. Then, slowly play music which is less familiar. Use a variety of artists. Be aware of what you are trying to create, your purpose for using that music piece; also how the piece you have chosen will enhance learning and how it will affect their listening.

Terry