10/13/2023
Hey there, NYC! ππ My name is Micah, and I am your Tutor Doctor Upper East Side educational consultant and supporter.
If you see me running around make sure to say hello. I am an avid foodie, musical theatre lover, educator, and performer. Today, I'm thrilled to dive into a topic that's both close to my heart and incredibly powerful for boosting your study game:
Music as a Study Aid!πΆβ¨
Now, let's get a bit nerdy (in a fun way, of course)! π€π΅
Creating an Effective Study Playlist
Ready to become your very own DJ? π§ I'll spill the tea on how to craft the ultimate study playlist that won't just keep you awake but also super focused. From classical symphonies to chilled-out beats, we've got the secrets to make your playlist pop. Your subjects are about to get their very own soundtracks! πΌπ
Tips for Maintaining Focus During Study Sessions
Platforms
My personal preference is Spotify, but you can make it work with AppleMusic or even YouTube! If you have access to platforms that donβt have ads, that is the way to go. Nothing like being immersed in your study session and then getting an ad for ice cream.
Original or Instrumental Covers?
Both can serve a purpose, but I encourage you to take the instrumental route. It tends to be easier to stay focused on the task at hand instead of rocking out to your favorite jam. If you do include a song with text, I suggest that it is not something that plays daily on the radio. Rocking out to your most listened to selection can be a great brain break, especially if you need to get up and move. Get the blood circulating!
Variety
Tempo
Just like in life we want variety! Within your customized playlists include both upbeat selections and ballads.
Instrumentation
Which instruments are used? A whole playlist of piano although relaxing might not keep you rolling through your homework. Consider a wide range! Explore electronic music, large orchestral/choral selections, simple guitar, piano, and music in languages you might not understand.
Musical Hook
Find the songs with a strong musical hook. It helps keep the brain active. If it is a song you love most likely you will recognize the hook. A musical hook is a catchy piece of musical material. Typically, itβs the musical material you easily retain.
If youβre stumped on your search, take a listen to some of these. (With Parent Permission of Course!)
Gambrels of the Sky by Blythe Davidson
Dance of the Imagination Greg Maroney
Donβt Be so Hard on Yourself by Jess Glyne
Italian Summer by Brian Crain
Limbo Jazz by Duke Ellington, Coleman Hawkins
Adagio for Strings, Op. 11 (Samuel Barber, Leonard Berstein, New York Philharmonic
Abendlied, Op. 69 No.3 by Joseph Rheinberger, The Cambridge Singers
Aftergold by Big Gold
Flames to Dust by Shierro
Shirleyβs Blues by Shirley Horn
Tokyo Sunrise by The Swingles
Arabesques: Arabesque No. 1 by Debussy
Making All Things New
Iβll Stand By You (Acoustic Guitar) by The String Theorist
Stop in the Name of Love by Caitlin The Ex Factor
One Life by James Bay
Proud Corazon by Anthony Gonzalez
Well, that's a wrap, folks! πππΆ Music isn't just a backdrop to your life; it's a powerful tool to enhance your study sessions. Remember, learning is a journey, and we're here to make it as melodious as possible.
P.S. Before starting this process I encourage you to do some reflection. Brainstorm a list of what brings you joy, peace, excitement, etc. Music can help support your experience and has the potential to contribute to emotional relief.
Stay tuned for more tips, tricks, and educational insight from Tutor Doctor Upper East Side. ππ
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