Music is one of those things that means different things to different people. Our preferred musical choices can take us back in time to certain important moments in our lives or even act as the on-going soundtrack of our lives. Music can help us through tough times; it can inspire us; and it can teach us a lot of different things in life.

It should come as no surprise that many of our students and young people also like music too! While some of today’s popular artists may sometimes be unknown to some us older adult folks, that does not mean that their impact and influence is any less important to their younger fanbases and listeners. Music even has the ability to transcend language differences; age differences; ethnic or religious differences; socio-economic differences–you name it–and so music can provide a great way to connect with those of us involved in the field of Education. With that in mind, let’s look at five great reasons to play music for students.

1. Make Students Feel Welcome & Accepted:

Quite apparently, there are many times when we are meeting with students when music can be distracting to the conversation–especially, when we are really trying to listen to a student or times when students are in heightened emotional states. However, there also may be times where music can be totally appropriate. For example, when I decided to start playing music for a few of my meetings with students, the students were actively engaged in collaborative work with me. One time, was for completing an electronic form for a district-wide special programming application for the following school year; another time, was for selecting courses for next year. Both examples were things that many students could complete with me, while also being able to enjoy some tunes. I simply asked each student what they were listening to (either in previous conversations or in the early part of our current meeting, and voila!, like magic, on came a few songs for them to enjoy from their favorite artists. Playing a student’s favorite music can definitely help make your office or classroom an even more welcoming place.

2. Surprise Students–in a Good Way:

Not only can playing music make students feel welcome and accepted, it can be a great surprise for them! For me, the best part is not telling students that I am going to play some tunes for them, but then–BOOM–out of nowhere comes that familiar intro or rift, or mesmerizing beat, and, all of a sudden, comes a moment or opportunity to really make a connection with students. For me, it’s not about playing my favorite artists or genres of music, but about what students enjoy. It’s also not about trying to score “cool” points with students, either, but merely a way to better connect with them, and…

3. Show interest in Students’ Lives Outside of School:

For many students, music is a big part of their identity; a form of entertainment; inspiration–an important method of self-expression. As educators of all kinds, we can show students that we are interested in what makes them who they are–inside and outside of school. We can elevate their individual personhood and show them that we care–and that personal touch can really make a difference. Remember that word ‘connection’, just a few sentences ago? It’s the same here: We are looking for ways to value, elevate, and connect with our students. Don’t be afraid: Go ahead and play that popular or personal favorite song for students, because you may just…

4. Find Something New for Your Own Playlist!

Now, I am not saying that every one of us will enjoy all of the artists that students enjoy listening to, and, personally, for me, I really don’t “do” Country music (but I would still play a Country song or two–or maybe even play it backwards–for a student) if it helped build a connection. But, sometimes, students may help show us a particular song or artist that we may enjoy ourselves (you just never know!), and, from there, we can add some new tunes to our own playlists.

5. Gain an Understanding of What Students are Listening to:

Lastly–but not least–one of the best reasons to play music for students is to understand what our learners are listening to and absorbing into their lives. I am pretty wide-open to what I would be allowed to be played–save for one (very) important rule: It must be school-appropriate. In my own life, I do not enjoy vulgar or raunchy music. So, I won’t play music glorifying drugs, alcohol, objectifying other people, or elevating violent or self-destructive behaviors. All the same, it is perhaps good to know which music artists are most popular with students. Why is a particular artist popular? What are their songs about? What makes the music and the artist appeal to young people? All of these are questions that can be worth a closer look. Because music is important and popular to many people–and at many different age-levels–let’s use the gift of music to better connect with our students, if–and whenever–we have the opportunity.