It’s because we want to make it known that music education is more than a creative outlet. It’s a powerful, practical tool that solves challenges that extend far beyond the music room.

The 10 Benefits of Music Education for Students

A strong music program influences everything from how students learn and think to their crucial social and emotional skills.

Not sure? Let’s explore 10 compelling ways music education enriches students’ lives and strengthens schools, proving it’s a truly smart investment.

Provides a Creative Outlet

Music offers students a unique way to express themselves and their ideas. It encourages them to think creatively and take artistic risks, building an innovative mindset that is useful in any subject. For example, a student might experiment by adding their personal touch to a standard piece or work with classmates to find fun, unexpected melodies in a composition project.

Sharpens Listening & Focus

Music absolutely demands sharp listening skills. Students must hear details such as pitch, rhythm, and volume. This sharpens their listening skills, helping them pay better attention and focus on instruction in all their classes, as well as outside of school. Think about how a band section adjusts its volume just from seeing the director’s hand signal, or how a choir member fine-tunes their voice to blend perfectly with others.

Builds Teamwork & Community

Being part of a band, choir, or orchestra is a fantastic way to learn about teamwork and collaboration. Students quickly figure out that everyone’s effort contributes to the group’s overall success. This builds a strong sense of shared responsibility, respect, and community. You’ll see this when students help each other with a tricky part, or when an ensemble celebrates together once they’ve nailed a challenging tempo change.

Instills Discipline & Confidence

Consistently practicing an instrument or voice builds real discipline and teaches patience. Students learn that sticking with something, even when it’s tough, leads to big improvements. That moment a student finally plays a challenging piece they’ve worked so hard on in front of an audience is a huge confidence booster. It shows them they can achieve difficult goals with dedication.

Increases Attention Spans

With so many distractions and quick serotonin boosts available to students on their phones and online, music education is an excellent way to build focus. Learning music means paying close attention to many details and how everything fits together. This trains the brain to concentrate deeply, which significantly boosts their attention span for all kinds of learning. Just think about sight-reading new music; that sharp, quick focus is precisely what helps improve concentration for other complex schoolwork.

Improves Learning & Scores in Other Disciplines

The cognitive benefits of music are pretty amazing. It actively develops parts of the brain involved in language processing and strengthens “spatial-temporal skills” crucial for subjects like math and problem-solving. Research has even shown that people who practice a musical instrument have “larger growth of neural activity” than people who don’t. Additionally, students who participate in music education tend to perform better academically overall and are more likely to graduate.

Develops Time Management Skills

Juggling rehearsals, lessons, and practice with schoolwork and other activities teaches students practical time management skills. They learn how to prioritize tasks, set goals, and manage their schedule effectively to meet all their commitments.

Relieves Stress & Anxiety

With all the pressure students face, having a healthy way to de-stress is vital. Playing an instrument, singing, or just listening to music can be a powerful emotional outlet. It offers a calm escape from outside pressures, helping them express their emotions, connect with others, and develop their sense of identity.

Encourages Curiosity & Cultural Awareness

Music introduces students to different cultures, musical genres, and ways of expressing themselves. This sparks a curiosity that often lasts a lifetime, encouraging continuous learning and broadening their worldview. Music is a way for them to connect not only with their fellow musicians but also with people across the world who share a passion for music.

Supports Motor Skills & Cognitive Development

For younger students, especially, learning an instrument is fantastic for developing both fine and gross motor skills. The detailed finger movements for instruments like piano or guitar, or the coordination needed for percussion, really refine their dexterity. These physical actions are also strongly linked to brain development, enhancing memory and cognitive skills.

How MakeMusic Helps You Improve Your Music Program

Understanding the profound benefits of music education is one thing; effectively nurturing them within a busy school environment is another. Daily realities often mean balancing large class sizes, diverse student needs, and limited prep time. This is where modern education tech tools become invaluable, acting as a crucial support system for both educators and students.

MakeMusic offers a platform designed to streamline daily tasks for teachers and empower students to take ownership of their learning.

• Saves Valuable Teacher Time: Adding automation to tasks like assignment creation, grading, and feedback frees up educators to provide more direct, personalized instruction.
• Empowers Independent Student Practice: Giving students real-time feedback, professional accompaniments to play along with, and learning resources for effective home practice creates an interactive experience that encourages independent learning.
• Reinforces Classroom Learning: Providing a consistent platform to assign curriculum-aligned content, solidifying skills learned in class.

Ultimately, MakeMusic aims to make music education more accessible and manageable for everyone involved. It supports the benefits of music education by providing teachers with more capacity to teach and students with more effective resources to learn, practice, and grow.

For more ideas on how MakeMusic can transform your classroom, check out our blog, “9 Ways to Use MakeMusic Cloud in Your Classroom.”

Investing in Every Student’s Potential Through Meaningful Music Education

Music education is far more than an elective; it’s a fundamental investment in student success. A strong music program builds vital skills, from critical thinking to teamwork and resilience, benefiting every aspect of a student’s development. To discover how your school can strengthen these programs and empower students with essential learning resources, explore how MakeMusic can support your music initiatives today.

The post The 10 Benefits of Music Education for Students appeared first on MakeMusic.

Another month brings another wave of exciting additions to the MakeMusic Cloud library! Perfect for fun summer practicing. Whether you’re leading an ensemble or learning on your own, there’s something new to explore.

This month’s instrumental selections feature compelling new works by Cindy Hill, Mekel Rogers, Jack Stamp, and others. There’s a range of styles and levels to energize your summer performances.

In choral music, we’ve added expressive new repertoire from Pinkzebra, known for their accessible and emotionally rich writing for singers of all levels.

From the world of film music, solos from Mickey 17 are now available in interactive formats.

The popular Foundations series continues with Solo Foundations, iconic cinematic solos, and coordinated prep exercises to help students learn independently. Music from The Mandalorian is available to practice now!

Click the link below to check out all of this month’s newest titles. Keep the music going with MakeMusic Cloud!

Click to view all interactive music added to MakeMusic Cloud this month.

MakeMusic Cloud is home to the largest interactive and digital sheet music libraries available, with tens of thousands of titles spanning every instrument, ensemble type, skill level, and genre. Each subscription provides access to every title in our unrivaled repertoire library of music from more than 130 different publishers. Start your 30-day free trial.

The post May 2025 Repertoire Update appeared first on MakeMusic.

Whether they’re conducting chaos into harmony or helping students find their voice (sometimes literally), music educators play a vital role in shaping students through creativity, discipline, and expression. Here are 10 meaningful and memorable ways to show your appreciation for music teachers during this special week.

When is Teacher Appreciation Week​?

Teacher Appreciation Week 2025 will take place from May 5-9, with National Teacher Day on Tuesday, May 6. It’s the perfect time to recognize music teachers’ dedication to inspiring the next generation of performers and developing students’ creativity.

10 Special Teacher Appreciation Ideas

Here are 10 simple yet powerful ideas to show love and gratitude to your music teachers:

1. Write a Heartfelt Thank-You Note: A personal message from a student, parent, or administrator expressing the positive impact that the teacher has had can be incredibly meaningful. We’ve also included some templates to get you started below!
2. Create a Student Performance Video: Organize a surprise video performance featuring students playing a short piece and saying thank you.
3. Decorate their Room: Have students decorate the door or room with posters, musical puns, and kind words to surprise the teacher before school.
4. Give them a Personal Gift: Skip the “World’s Best Teacher” mug and try out some of these other creative gift ideas:
   a. Personalized Items: A custom baton, music stand, or folder. You could also gather handwritten messages from students and put them in a picture frame or other display.
   b. Classroom Essentials: Give them something they might need, like sheet music storage, a new baton, or whiteboard markers.
   c. Self-care Gifts: A cozy blanket, tea sampler, or relaxing stress-relief items.
   d. Music-themed Accessories: Look for fun music-themed socks, tote bags, or accessories.
5. Nominate Your Teacher for The Spark Award presented by MakeMusic and Alfred Music: Celebrate your teacher on a national level! The SPARK Award honors music educators who go above and beyond. Submit your nomination here to give your teacher the recognition they deserve.
6. Deliver a Tasty Treat: Drop off their go-to coffee, tea, or snack with a quick note of appreciation. A little caffeine and kindness goes a long way.
7. Make a Donation in Their Name: Find a local charity or non-profit music organization to donate to yourself, or get other parents involved and make a group donation.
8. Share a Positive Anecdote with the Principal: Let school leaders know about the difference your teacher is making, it’s a small gesture that can lead to bigger recognition.
9. Offer to Help With a Specific Task: Whether it’s setting up for a concert, chaperoning a field trip, or helping organize materials, your time is a valuable gift.
10. Create a Class “Appreciation Board”: Set up a bulletin board or digital space where students can post thank-you notes, drawings, and personalized messages.
11.  

Teacher Appreciation Week Letter Templates

If you want to write a thoughtful letter for a music teacher you know but you’re not sure where to start, here are a few sample messages:

1. For Parents

Subject: Thank You for All You Do

Dear [Teacher’s Name],

I just wanted to take a moment during Teacher Appreciation Week to thank you for the difference you’ve made in [Student’s Name]’s life.
Your passion for music and dedication to your students is clear in everything you do. [Student’s Name] has grown so much as a musician this year, and more importantly, they’ve gained confidence and a love for learning.

We’re truly grateful for your guidance and the time you invest in your students.

With appreciation,
[Your Name]

2. For Administrators

Subject: Thank You for Your Impact

Dear [Teacher’s Name],

On behalf of the [School/District Name], I want to thank you for the outstanding work you do as part of our faculty.

Your leadership in the music program plays a vital role in shaping a positive and creative school environment. Your ability to connect with students and encourage their musical and personal growth doesn’t go unnoticed.

Thank you for your continued commitment to excellence and for representing our school with such professionalism.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

3. For Students

Subject: Thank You, [Teacher’s Name]!

Dear [Teacher’s Name],

Happy Teacher Appreciation Week! Thank you for being such a great teacher and for making music class something I always look forward to.

I’ve learned so much this year, and I really appreciate how you always push us to do our best while still making things fun.
You’ve helped me grow not just as a musician but as a person, too. Thank you for everything!

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Music Teacher Appreciation Quotes

These short, relevant teacher appreciation quotes can be used in cards, notes, or recognition materials:

• “Music can change the world because it can change people.” – Bono
• “The art of teaching is the art of assisting discovery.” – Mark Van Doren
• “There is music in every child. The teacher’s job is to find it and nurture it.” – Frances Clark
• “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything.” – Plato
• “Music has healing power. It has the ability to take people out of themselves for a few hours.” – Elton John
• “There’s nothing like music to relieve the soul and uplift it.” – Mickey Hart
• “Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” – William Butler Yeats
• “With music, one’s whole future life is brightened. This is such a treasure in life that it helps us over many troubles and difficulties. Music is nourishment, a comforting elixir. Music multiplies all that is beautiful and of value in life.” – Zoltán Kodály
• “So long as the human spirit thrives on this planet, music in some living form will accompany and sustain it.” – Aaron Copland

How to Show Teacher Appreciation with MakeMusic!

If your school uses MakeMusic, here’s another creative way to get students involved:

Have students (discreetly!) find out what music their teacher loves, then search the MakeMusic Cloud catalog for that piece. Even learning just a short section and surprising their teacher can become a memorable moment and a heartfelt way to say thanks.

If your school hasn’t used MakeMusic yet, now is the perfect time to consider how the right tools can support your music educators year-round, not just during appreciation week.

MakeMusic offers an integrated platform built specifically for music instruction and practice, helping teachers save time, customize assignments, and give students a more engaging learning experience. To explore how MakeMusic can benefit your music program, try our free 30-day trial!

And don’t forget – Nominate an outstanding teacher for The Spark Award today!

The post 10 Ways to Show Your Appreciation For Music Teachers During Teacher Appreciation Week appeared first on MakeMusic.

Some of our students are self-motivated go-getters who will diligently continue their studies through private lessons or music camps. But most will fall into the classic summer slack and return to us in the fall with sloppy skills and little stamina. Even as a band director, I’ve fallen into the same patterns and have benefited from a new challenge. Our students can and will surprise us when we provide them with new ways to perform and demonstrate their skills. Also, PRIZES help!

In the summer of 2024, we offered a weekly opportunity using MakeMusic Cloud for students to earn extra credit towards the following school year as well as earn prizes to be redeemed in the fall. Weekly challenges featured popular Catalog titles in which the students would practice and submit recordings at the end of each week. Students could participate as little or as much as they could or simply when they chose to. At the start of the 2024-2025 school year, prizes were awarded, and all participating students were recognized in our monthly band newsletter, which was delivered to all band students and parents. You’d be surprised what a little recognition can do for motivation and engagement. All participants were awarded extra credit towards their quarter 1 grades. If extra credit is taboo in your district, I suggest incorporating some optional assignments into your curriculum. In this scenario, students who choose to complete optional work can earn credit, and those who do not participate are not penalized.

In addition to extra credit, we awarded prizes to students based on how much they engaged with the challenge and how often. The top two students who logged the most time practicing with MakeMusic Cloud were given the choice of gift cards from either Amazon or Starbucks. We also randomly chose two winners from all students who engaged with the challenge. We are fortunate to have funds in our budget to award gift cards. If your school does not, check with the cafeteria and see what “treat” options they have, as students are often satisfied and motivated by choosing a treat at lunch. Local fast food restaurants will also donate certificates for free treats at their location.

Before the challenge began, I created a summer calendar and chose tunes from the MakeMusic Cloud Catalog I thought would be appealing to students. There are so many options, and you can find something for everyone. Once I had decided on the tunes, I scheduled a new tune to be available for practice and submission each Monday morning at 8 am. Students have the whole week to practice and submit the tune by midnight Sunday. We did not require students to earn a particular percentage in order to submit, although I did speak with students about our performance expectations when introducing the Summer Challenge. Students were encouraged to join the Summer Challenge 2024 class in MakeMusic Cloud, and I shared the challenge with parents via email. One more scheduled email went out to students and parents on the last day of school, and then the challenge began.

Throughout the summer, a handful of students reached out with questions regarding their submissions, but most were independent. I occasionally checked a few submissions, but thanks to the schedule feature in MakeMusic Cloud, I was able to set it and forget it until we returned to school in August. There were the usual and expected participants, but several surprises as well. One of our top winners was unexpected, but well deserved, and after making a production of awarding prizes, we hope for even greater participation this summer.

See below for teacher and student instructions as well as a sample graphic to print and fill out!

FOR TEACHERS: How to Set Up a Summer Practice Challenge with MakeMusic Cloud

Goal: Encourage students to continue practicing over summer break with weekly tune challenges, optional submissions, and rewards to keep them motivated and engaged.

✅Instructions:

1. Pick the Dates: Choose the start and end dates for your summer challenge. Typically, run it weekly from early June to late July.
2. Choose Repertoire: Select 6–8 fun, accessible tunes from the MakeMusic Cloud Catalog. Make sure they appeal to your students and suit different skill levels.
3. Create a Calendar: Assign one tune per week and list it on a printable or digital calendar. Release a new tune each Monday.
4. Set Up in MakeMusic Cloud:
   • Create a new class called “Summer Challenge 2025.”
   • Schedule each weekly tune to appear Mondays at 8 AM.
   • Allow submissions through Sunday at midnight.

5. Invite Students & Parents:

• Send out emails with instructions, the calendar, and the MakeMusic Cloud class code.
• Remind them on the last day of school to sign up and participate.

6. Track Participation:

• No need to grade submissions—just monitor who submits and how often.
• Use participation logs for prize eligibility.

7. Offer Prizes:

• Top Practicer Awards: For the students who log the most time.
• Random Prize Drawings: Enter all students that participated.
• Bonus Credit: Award extra credit or optional assignment credit toward the next school year.
• Alternative Incentives: Lunch treats, shout-outs in your newsletter, certificates, etc.

8. Celebrate in the Fall:
Recognize all participants and hand out prizes early in the school year!

FOR STUDENTS: Join the Summer Band Challenge!

Keep your chops up this summer, learn fun music, and win cool prizes!

🎵 How It Works:

• A new tune will be assigned each Monday via MakeMusic Cloud.
• Practice the tune throughout the week.
• Submit your best performance by Sunday at midnight.
• Participate in as many weeks as you’d like!

🏆 Why Join?

• You’ll keep improving your skills over the summer.
• Win prizes like extra credit, treats, or shout-outs!
• Top practicers and random participants will be rewarded in the fall.

The post Boost Summer Practice with MakeMusic Cloud: A Band Director’s Guide to Keeping Students Engaged appeared first on MakeMusic.

We’re back with another round of exciting updates to the MakeMusic Cloud library! Whether you’re planning your next performance or just looking for something new to practice, there’s plenty to discover in this month’s additions.

The instrumental catalog continues to grow with new works from a fantastic group of composers, including Randall D. Standridge, Cindy Hill, Erin Keeton-Howard, Pinkzebra, Robert Sheldon, and more. These works for concert band and orchestra offer a range of styles and challenges to keep ensembles engaged and inspired.

Also new this month is a versatile supplemental book: Sound Performance for Young Musicians by Chris M. Bernotas and Jim Palmer. Designed for flexibility, this resource includes music that can be played as solos, duets, or trios—with or without piano—making it a great tool for both classroom and individual instruction.

And don’t miss the latest pop and film music additions! New tracks from Batman: Caped Crusader, Green Day, Howard Shore, Twenty One Pilots, and others bring even more variety to your practice sessions and performances.

Click to view all interactive music added to MakeMusic Cloud this month.

MakeMusic Cloud is home to the largest interactive and digital sheet music libraries available, with tens of thousands of titles spanning every instrument, ensemble type, skill level, and genre. Each subscription provides access to every title in our unrivaled repertoire library of music from more than 130 different publishers. Start your 30-day free trial.

The post April 2025 Repertoire Update appeared first on MakeMusic.

We’re searching for a music educator who ignites a love of music in their students to receive our first ever ✨Spark Award✨ presented by MakeMusic and Alfred Music. 

Congratulations to our 2025 Spark Award Winner: Amanda Cornet! 

Amanda Cornet stands out as a true champion of music education. She’s not just an orchestra teacher; she’s a passionate mentor who consistently goes the extra mile to share the pure joy of music with her students. Amanda’s dedication shines through in everything she does, from her Strolling Strings class to her exciting plans for a new sound garden. She’s all about helping kids discover their musical spark and share it with the world, creating a lasting love for music that reaches far beyond the classroom.

We received hundreds of inspiring nominations and thousands of votes—it’s been an honor to celebrate music educators alongside each of you! 

We asked voters to keep in mind the candidates Educational Impact, Demonstrated Student Growth, and their Contribution to the Music Education Community. 

The 2025 Spark Finalists (in alphabetical order by last name) 

Wayne David Barkley from Loris, South Carolina

Nomination submissions for Wayne David Barkley express how influential he is in the lives of his students, with many former students becoming educators themselves. He is noted to be an advocate for the Arts and wants every child to have the opportunity to learn music. He is said to be patient, nurturing, encouraging, and students reportedly love his classes. He spends many hours outside of the school day to plan, provide extra help, and even write grants all for his students. 

Amanda Cornet from Fishers, Indiana

Nomination submissions for Amanda Cornet praised her for being a teacher who goes above and beyond, is impactful and effective, and who shares the joys of music with her students while helping them learn to share that joy with others. She was cited as being passionate, dedicated, and committed to student success in and outside of the classroom. Her Strolling Strings class came up several times as a positive outlet for students and those who get to enjoy their performances.

Richard Dunham from Rochester, New York

Nomination submissions for Richard Dunham state that he is an inspiration to his colleagues, demonstrating outstanding leadership and going above and beyond for his community. He is a teacher who assumes extra duties in the school building, and offers extended student support when needed. He is an active mentor to younger teachers and inspires his students to become musicians, but also to show up everyday as themselves. 

Charles Miller from Columbiana, Ohio 

Nomination submissions for Charles Miller praise him as an amazing educator who is truly invested in the betterment of all of his students. He is inspirational to colleagues, runs an active marching band program outside of the school year, and stepped in to fill a need for the school Drama Department by leading productions for the past 3 years. He is noted to be an “undeniable beacon of enthusiasm and commitment.” 

Mark White from Marlton, New Jersey 

Nomination submissions for Mark White celebrate him as dedicated and enthusiastic, saying “his love for music and teaching is truly contagious.” Several stories about Mark’s positive impact on students came in stating that he is inspiring, develops a love of music in his students, and supports students to build their self-confidence. He teaches at two campuses and is noted for being patient, making a difference, instilling passion, and spreading the joy of music. 

 

Nomination Qualifications

Any music teacher actively teaching (public, private, or charter schools, or private lessons) with at least 2 years of teaching experience. Evidence of contribution to student growth, music education, innovation, and/or community involvement. 

Prizes

The teacher you nominate could win: 

• 1 MakeMusic Cloud Teacher Subscription (1 year)
• 25 MakeMusic Cloud Student Subscriptions (1 year)
• $200 credit to use at Alfred.com 

Timeline 

Nominations open April 8, 2025 – May 9, 2025 

Finalists chosen by MakeMusic panel and announced May 14, 2025 

Final voting open May 14, 2025 – May 20, 2025 (come back here to vote!) 

We’ll celebrate the final winner on or around May 23, 2025 

Official Rules 

View a copy of the official rules here. 

The post Nominate an outstanding teacher for The Spark Award! appeared first on MakeMusic.

A struggle I often face as a music educator is finding time in class to work on scale mastery. I would wrestle with the questions: Should I make them play scales faster? In thirds? As arpeggios? Technical aspects always seemed to get in the way, especially for the clarinets, or we would hit range issues for brass.

No matter what I had the students do to learn scales, we were faced with obstacles. I could see the proverbial gaps appearing, and the trajectory wasn’t leading to the desired outcomes, so I would quickly abandon the effort. The other issue was getting students to buy into memorizing their scales and getting their technique to a place where they no longer had to think about the finger patterns and could focus on tone.

This is when I decided to try something different. Instead of learning all 12 keys right away, I had students in 6th grade (2nd-year players) work on one scale, mastering it in-depth using modes.

Figure 1: This is a written-out example of what we took 6th Grade Clarinets through by rote. Note that we went down an octave for some of the scales. This was intentional to show that the octave they play in doesn’t impact the tonality of the scale. 

I had the students play their major scale slowly, covering the basics such as appropriate fingerings, key signatures, etc. We then started on the second mode, then the third mode, and so on. This opened their ears and improved their technical facility. The students quickly played seven modes across five key areas (Concerts C, F, Bb, Eb, Ab). They took off—that is 35 different scales!

Through this process, the students took ownership of mastering their scales right then and there, and all they needed to know were the rules:

1. The key signature stays constant.
2. Octaves do not matter; adjust for your instrument and range (use your fingering chart).
3. Go!

This work subsequently led to my favorite part as a music educator—TONS of content-specific questions! In my mind, student inquiry indicates that a student has truly learned and connected with the content. I was bombarded with questions about enharmonics, transposition (especially for Eb Alto Saxophones), names of modes, major, minor, diminished, and even augmented. (As a side note, showing them the “ever popular” Tritone and its use in popular music like “Maria” from West Side Story and The Simpsons Theme Song was a blast to see so many lightbulbs!)

While playing, their listening and adjusting to tonalities improved, as did their endurance. Here are other benefits of teaching modes alongside major scales based on my experience:

• Students deepen their connection with their instrument notes and ranges.
• Students learn to hold a key signature as a constant while the tonality shifts around it.
• Helps with memorizing and solidifying the note names that make up scales and the repetitive patterns of notes.
• Trains students’ ears to hear different cadences.
• Rehearses harmonic patterns that come up regularly in the repertoire.
• Keeps the practice of learning scales fresh and new without getting into intervals.
• Students learn their minor scales.
• Students learn to make decisions about which octave to play in, which can also promote working to extend one’s range (ie, altissimo)

I hope some of you will find this helpful if you are looking for a slightly different approach to working through scales with your students (any age). I would love to hear if there are other positive takeaways that help your students!

Want to try this with your students? It’s easy to use Compose in MakeMusic Cloud to create your own custom scale document. With the new Annotations feature, you can offer even more instruction to your students as they begin an independent learning journey! The Compose files that you create in MakeMusic Cloud can be shared or assigned for a seamless experience.

New to MakeMusic Cloud? Get started free today—no credit card required!

The post Majors, Minors, & Modes, Oh My! appeared first on MakeMusic.

We’re excited to share a new wave of musical selections to elevate your performances and practice sessions. Our latest additions span a diverse range of genres, ensuring there’s something to spark creativity for every musician.

For concert bands and orchestras, explore inspiring new works by composers such as Brian Balmages, JaRod Hall, Christina Huss, and Randall D. Standridge, among others. See the complete list below.

In popular and film music, we’ve expanded our library with exciting selections, including music from The Hobbit and fresh tracks from chart-toppers like Justin Bieber and Justin Timberlake.

Start your journey through this month’s repertoire on MakeMusic Cloud and discover the music that will define your next performance. Enjoy the creativity and innovation these new pieces bring, and let them inspire your musical adventures!

Click to view all interactive music added to MakeMusic Cloud this month.

MakeMusic Cloud is home to the largest interactive and digital sheet music libraries available, with tens of thousands of titles spanning every instrument, ensemble type, skill level, and genre. Each subscription provides access to every title in our unrivaled repertoire library of music from more than 130 different publishers. Start your 30-day free trial.

The post March 2025 Repertoire Update appeared first on MakeMusic.

When we truly believe in someone’s potential—whether it’s a student, a colleague, or ourselves—we can achieve remarkable results and growth. Studies in schools, businesses, and the military have shown that our thoughts can profoundly impact our achievements. When teachers adopt a more optimistic outlook toward their students, they become more patient, offer more positive feedback, and develop a stronger belief in their students’ potential.

The Pygmalion Effect

The Pygmalion Effect is a fascinating study by Dr. Robert Rosenthal demonstrating how our positive or negative labels can become self-fulfilling prophecies. In the study, researchers had college students care for two groups of rats, telling them that one group was bred to excel at running mazes (Bright Rats) while the other was expected to perform poorly (Dull Rats). However, these labels were randomly assigned, and there was no difference in the rats’ maze-running abilities.

After a few weeks of care, the students ran the rats through a maze. The randomly selected Bright Rats completed the maze faster and made fewer mistakes than the randomly selected Dull Rats!

The students caring for the Bright Rats unknowingly gave them more encouragement and handled them with greater care. Dr. Rosenthal believes that the students’ predetermined beliefs about the rats directly impacted their performance in the maze.

“If it can happen with rats, imagine how much more it can happen with children.”
– Dr. Robert Rosenthal

Students Randomly Labeled Late Bloomers Outperform Their Peers

In another study on the Pygmalion Effect in the Classroom, Rosenthal and Jacobson conducted research at an elementary school in California. They told teachers that 20% of the class had been identified as Late Bloomers and were expected to show significant improvement during the year. The teachers did not know that the students labeled Late Bloomers, like the Bright Rats, were randomly selected.

By the end of the school year, the randomly selected Late Bloomers showed significant academic improvement compared to their peers, particularly among the younger students.

Labels, both positive and negative, are extremely powerful for our students. We must choose them with great care. Dr. Rosenthal recommends using the label “Learner” for our students. This label opens up almost limitless possibilities!

Nurture a Growth Mindset

The brain’s remarkable ability to grow, known as brain plasticity, is a powerful reminder for teachers that our brains have an incredible capacity to develop at any age.

For an inspiring dose of optimism and growth mindset positivity, watch Dr. Michael Merzenich’s interview in this video from The Learner Lab: Growth Mindset, Leadership, and the Pygmalion Effect. His inspiring quote below begins at 11:34, but be sure to watch the entire amazing 15-minute video.

“We did experiments that showed that the brain is massively plastic at any age. It turns out that plasticity in the brain is its big trick. It’s the main thing that makes it so fantastic.
And I can prove it.

Absolutely everyone has the capacity to be better at virtually anything.

With that understanding, miracles can occur, in your capacity to understand and do complicated things that you thought you never could do.

You are designed to be continuously improvable!
Nobody’s done!
Nobody’s defined what their limits are!

I can tell you, whatever you think your limits are, you’re wrong!”

-Dr. Michael Merzenich

Use Self-Talk to Challenge Limiting Thoughts About Your Students

All teachers can occasionally fall into the trap of having limiting thoughts about their students. When we hold these beliefs, we expect less and get less. But when we dream big for our students, they often will surprise us. Giving all our students opportunities to step out of their usual limits can lead to remarkable growth.

If you find yourself limiting what you believe a student can achieve, try the process below. It may seem simple, but research shows that reframing our thoughts can truly change our behavior—and, in turn, our students’ outcomes.

Reframing Limiting Thoughts

1. Notice a limiting thought about a student. The first step is always to notice 🙂
2. Remind yourself that having limiting thoughts is natural and human.
   You are certainly not alone, and no one is perfect.
3. Replace the limiting thought with a more empowering one.
   Try this powerful thought inspired by Dr. Merzenich:

“Whatever you think THEIR limits are, you’re wrong!”
– Dr. Michael Merzenich

And… if you notice a limiting thought about yourself, say to yourself:

“Whatever you think YOUR limits are, you’re wrong.”

Use Popular Music to Motivate and Stretch All Past Perceived Limits

Providing all of your students with popular music to learn is an effective way to motivate them and stretch them beyond perceived limits. Write in some of the more challenging fingerings so that all have the support they need to learn the music. The MakeMusic Cloud Popular Music Collection is an excellent resource, offering fingerings and high-quality recordings to model and play along with. While your students may never become Olivia Rodrigo, they can be motivated to significantly improve and have a lot of fun along the way.

The YET Sign

Hanging a ‘YET‘ sign in your classroom is a simple and powerful way to remind students of their potential.

When students say they cannot do something, simply point to the sign and say, “You can’t do it YET”. If you ever feel discouraged, look at that same YET sign and gently remind yourself that you just haven’t succeeded YET—but you will! 🙂

If you teach younger students, consider sharing this powerful Sesame Street video with Janelle Monáe on ‘The Power of Yet.‘ You might even consider adjusting your grading system to A, B, C, and NY (Not Yet) to emphasize your students’ potential for growth.

Take Time to be Grateful

In a classic gratitude study, researchers asked participants to reflect on their day and write down three things they were grateful for. Compared to the control group, those who focused on gratitude reported higher levels of well-being, improved mood, and better physical health. The gratitude group also experienced better sleep and reported feeling more optimistic.

It seems too simple, but research shows that gratitude has immense power to shift how we view the world. It helps us to see ourselves and our students through a more optimistic lens.

I have created free long tone exercises for all musicians that support relaxation and remind teachers and students to be grateful.

You can find them on my MakeMusic Playlist: Long Tones for Relaxation and Gratitude Practice.

When your classroom or life feels challenging, take time each day to count your blessings. You can use my grateful breathing practices above, write down three things you are grateful for each evening, or just vividly recall one thing you are thankful for before you sleep. Find a gratitude habit that works for you, practice it daily, and you will become more optimistic.

Just Learning About These Tools Can Improve Your Optimism

Congratulations! Research suggests that by learning about the Pygmalion Effect, growth mindset, and the importance of gratitude, you’re on your way to becoming a more effective teacher! Studies by Christine Rubie-Davies suggest that simply learning about these concepts can lead to greater success in the classroom. May this powerful combination of tools help you stay optimistic, focused on the positive, and committed to helping both you and your students thrive.

A note from the author:

I am happy to hear from you with any questions or thoughts. 
Please reach out at PeggyRakas@gmail.com and learn more about my work at TeachingPositivity.com.

A Final Word About MakeMusic Cloud

When we set high expectations for our students, it’s important not only to encourage them but also to provide the support they need to succeed.

One of the reasons I fell in love with MakeMusic Cloud was that it offers tools to assist students who need extra help while also enabling me to inspire, empower, and motivate all to exceed their expectations and reach their full potential. With the tools available in MakeMusic Cloud, a teacher can differentiate instruction by sending home an assignment that strengthens fundamentals or stretches a student out of their comfort zone. The student can slow down the recordings (many of them are just stunning), and students can click on notes to learn pitches or fingerings.

MakeMusic Cloud supplies the support that students need to go beyond their perceived limits. When used thoughtfully, it can help all students feel they have what they need to succeed.

The post Positive Psychology for Music Educators: Nurturing Optimism appeared first on MakeMusic.

10 Relaxing Activities for Teachers on Spring Break

1. 1. Consider indulging in a good book. Whether it’s fiction or professional development, reading can transport you to another world. 
   2. A nature walk can also be refreshing. Disconnect from screens and embrace the sights and sounds around you.
   3. Meditation offers a peaceful way to recharge your mind. Just ten minutes of deep breathing can work wonders.
   4. Try yoga, too; it blends physical activity with relaxation beautifully.
   5. Cooking or baking new recipes provides a creative outlet while nourishing your body at the same time.
   6. Why not pamper yourself with a spa day at home? A long bath or some DIY face masks might just do the trick.
   7. Gardening is another calming option that connects you with nature while allowing for quiet reflection.
   8. Engage in art, whether it’s painting, drawing, or crafting. Creative expression helps release stress effectively.
   9. Last but not least, binge-watch that series you’ve been meaning to catch up on—guilt-free!

10 Productive Activities for Teachers on Spring Break

1. 1. Consider attending an online class or webinar related to your subject area. This is a great way to enhance your skills while connecting with other educators. You could try listening to a podcast too! 
   2. You could also focus on professional development by reading music ed books or articles. There’s always something new to learn that can inspire fresh ideas for the classroom. You might enjoy The Mindful Music Classroom, A Music Teacher’s Gratitude Journal or articles like this one to get inspired.
   3. Exploring new teaching tools and technologies might spark creativity, too. Experimenting with apps or platforms can enrich student engagement when you return. Test out the resources that MakeMusic Cloud has to offer you and your students with a free (no credit card required) 30-day trial. During a school break and away from your typical day-to-day is the perfect time to check it out!
   4. Reading blog posts about teaching experiences allows reflection and growth. Sharing insights helps build community among fellow educators while solidifying your own understanding of various concepts. Explore the MakeMusic Blog—with tons of resources from teachers like you, you may even get inspired to submit your own article for consideration! 
   5. Plan Future Lessons & Units: Use this time to get ahead. Organize your upcoming lesson plans, develop new unit ideas, create resources, or craft a custom Playlist in MakeMusic Cloud with titles that you want to consider for future concerts and events.. Having a solid plan will ease the transition back into the classroom.
      
   6. Organize Your Classroom Resources (Digitally or Physically): Declutter and streamline your teaching materials. Whether it’s organizing digital files, sorting physical resources, or creating a better storage system, a tidy workspace leads to a more efficient teaching environment.
      
   7. Reflect on Student Progress and Assessment Strategies: Analyze student performance data and consider adjustments to your assessment methods. Identify areas where students excelled and areas where they might need additional support.
      
   8. Network with Other Educators (Even Virtually): Connect with colleagues, either locally or online. Share ideas, collaborate on projects, or simply have a conversation about teaching strategies. Join online forums or social media groups for educators.
      
   9. Develop or Revise Your Curriculum: If you have the freedom, use this time to review and update your curriculum. Incorporate new learning standards, adjust pacing, or add relevant and engaging content. Explore The Foundations Series by Brian Balmages for a trove of rich supplemental exercises that reinforce fundamental skills and offer exciting movie soundtrack accompaniments that students love!
   10. Focus on Personal Well-being and Self-Care: While productivity is important, don’t neglect your own needs. Engage in activities that rejuvenate you, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones. A refreshed teacher is a more effective teacher. Educator Adrian Gordon offers wise words on this topic that every music educator needs to hear. 

Self-Care Tips for Teachers on Spring Break

Spring break offers a perfect opportunity for teachers to focus on self-care. Start your day with a mindful morning routine. Enjoy a warm cup of tea or coffee while soaking in the quiet before the day’s activities.

Set aside time for physical activity that you love, whether it’s yoga, hiking, or dancing in your living room. Movement boosts mood and energy levels immensely. Consider indulging in hobbies that ignite passion. Read that book you’ve been wanting to explore or try out new recipes in the kitchen.

Limit screen time and social media exposure during this period. Instead, connect with nature through walks or simply relaxing outdoors.

Don’t forget about relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing exercises. These practices can help clear your mind and reduce stress effectively.

Prioritize sleep by creating a cozy bedtime routine—rest is vital for rejuvenation after months of hard work.

Why It’s Essential for Teachers to Take Time Off and Recharge

Taking time off is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity, especially for teachers. The demands of the job can be overwhelming, and burnout is all too common in the profession. Spring break offers an invaluable opportunity to step back and breathe.

When teachers recharge over spring break, they return with renewed energy, creativity, and passion. This revitalization benefits not only themselves but also their students. A teacher who takes care of their own well-being creates a positive classroom environment where learning thrives.

Prioritizing self-care during breaks helps create balance in life. It allows educators to reconnect with their interests outside teaching and foster personal growth. Whether engaging in relaxing or productive activities—or both—these moments away from the classroom are vital for maintaining long-term effectiveness as an educator.

Teachers deserve this time to refresh their minds and spirits so they can continue shaping young lives positively. Embracing spring break as a chance to recharge ensures that when they return, they do so ready to inspire again.

The post 20 Things Teachers Can Do To Recharge Over Spring Break appeared first on MakeMusic.