Music is extremely popular among high school students, as many teens use music as a way to express themselves. Music preferences can vary, from pop, rap, hip-hop and rock.
Liam Jordan, sophomore, said, “I think most students listen to rap. I like Frank Ocean, he’s my favorite artist.”
Listening to music in school has both its pros and cons. Music can help students focus, reduce stress, and create a preferred learning environment. For example, most students listen to background music during independent work that may improve concentration, especially students who find silence distracting. It can also help students calm their nerves before big tests or during challenging work.
However, there are also downsides — music with lyrics can be distracting, making it harder for students to focus on reading, writing or listening. Additionally, wearing headphones can isolate students from interactions with peers or important announcements in class. Overall, music can make the school experience for some better, but it’s important to have balance to prevent distractions.
Carmela Palermo, sophomore, said, “My favorite singer is Mac Miller. I usually listen to him while I’m working to help me focus.”
Students often use music to elevate their moods or manage difficult emotions, such as sadness or anger, by connecting with lyrics or genres that match their feelings.
Students often discover new music in different ways, often through interactions with peers and social media. One of the most common ways is sharing music favorites with friends, whether in person or through the phone. Apps like Spotify, Youtube, Apple Music, and Soundcloud play a big role in this, by offering playlist recommendations, and songs and artists based on listening habits, and trending songs. Many students listen to music that their favorite influencers, celebrities, and even their favorite artists listen to.
Rihanna Clark, sophomore, said, ”I find music by scrolling on Soundcloud or hearing it from somewhere else like Tik Tok.”
Additionally, students might discover music through movies, TV shows, and video games. This can expose them to genres or artists they have never listened to before, this combination of social sharing and digital discoveries creates many opportunities for students to find new music.
Blessing Otte, sophomore, said, “I think most students listen to R&B or Rap. My favorite artist is Bryson Tiller. My favorite song right now is ‘Top Notch Bossman’ by Bossman Dlow.”
Going to concerts, music festivals, and even local performances can help students bond over shared music interests, and can be an outlet to form new relationships.
Participating in school music programs like the school band, orchestras, or choirs can create an opportunity for teamwork, collaboration, and create communities for students who enjoy performing together. Learning an instrument or engaging in music theory can enhance brain development aiding in memory and critical thinking, which can benefit students academically. Info from pennmedicine.org
Music can cover social, political, or emotional themes that students can discuss together, helping them connect on a deeper level by sharing thoughts and feelings on the message conveyed in the song.
Music also plays a role in school events, such as pep rallies, sports, and dances.
Additionally, music can encourage creative thinking, which can lead to improvements in other areas of study, like problem solving skills in subjects such as literature or science. Some teachers use background music during lessons or study periods to help students focus or relax, which can lead to improved concentration and learning outcomes.
Music and education can also have a positive impact on students behavior, encouraging discipline, responsibility, and perseverance through structured practice and performance.
Music enriches the highschool experience, giving both personal and educational benefits that shape social environments, support academic success, and promote emotional well being.
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