At our American School in Riyadh, the music program is designed to inspire students to go beyond academics and embrace the art of self-expression. Designed to inspire students to explore their musical talents and develop confidence, the program integrates hands-on learning with performances that spark joy and connection Read more about our music learning approach from Mr. Anurag Ladse, Music Teacher at OWIS Riyadh.
How do you integrate music into different learning groups?
I tailor my music lessons to cater to the diverse needs of different learning groups. For early learners, I focus on playful exploration through rhythm games, singing, and movement to help them develop foundational musical concepts. Primary students engage with simple instruments, learn to read music, and begin composing their own melodies. Middle school students dive into more complex musical theories, collaborative projects, and integrating technology into music creation.
For students with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), I use adaptive techniques like multisensory approaches and therapeutic music activities to make music accessible and meaningful. For gifted and talented students, I provide challenges like advanced compositions, opportunities to lead ensembles, and mentorship to explore their unique talents. Music becomes a universal language that resonates with all learning groups, fostering joy and creativity.
How do you help students balance music and academics?
I integrate music seamlessly into the IB transdisciplinary framework, leveraging its connections with other disciplines to support holistic development and reinforce key Approaches to Learning (ATLs) and Learner Profile attributes. For example:
- Grade 4 (Mathematics and Music): During their unit of inquiry “How we express ourselves”, students explore rhythms and note durations to understand fractions, helping them develop thinking skills while connecting mathematical concepts to music. This fosters the attributes of being knowledgeable and reflective as they analyze and apply their understanding in creative ways.
- Grade 5 (Individuals and Societies and Music): In their “Sharing the planet” unit, students analyze historical protest songs and their role in advocating for social change. They then compose original lyrics addressing contemporary issues such as sustainability or equality. This process develops communication skills, fosters international-mindedness, and promotes the attributes of open-minded, caring, and principled learners.
- Middle school (Science and Music): Students experiment with musical instruments to study sound waves, pitch, and resonance. By integrating research skills and conducting hands-on experiments, they develop a deeper understanding of scientific concepts while embodying the attributes of inquirers and thinkers.
- They further collaborate with Visual Arts to design World singing day logo, album covers, posters, or visual storytelling pieces that represent their musical themes, enhancing their creative thinking and research skills.
This multidisciplinary approach fosters international-mindedness, helping students appreciate the power of music and art as tools for advocacy and change. It also promotes the attributes of open-minded, caring, and principled learners, encouraging them to engage with global challenges through thoughtful, creative expression while developing a deeper understanding of how different art forms can unite to convey powerful messages.
Through these transdisciplinary connections, students develop a holistic understanding of how music can enhance academic learning while building essential life skills. This approach helps them balance their love for music with their academic pursuits, making learning more engaging, meaningful, and enjoyable.
What can parents do to support their child’s passion for music?
Music is far more than just entertainment or a source of fun—it plays a vital role in shaping a child’s personality and overall development. It helps students develop skills like learning new languages, improving hand-eye coordination, refining motor skills, and even enhancing their ability to focus. Research shows that learning music has a calming effect on the mind, helping children stay centered and balanced in their daily lives.
Parents can support their child’s passion for music by fostering a musical environment at home. Encourage daily practice and make music a joyful part of their routine, rather than a chore. This could include playing a variety of meaningful music, singing together, or attending live performances to inspire their interest. Collaborate with teachers to set realistic and achievable goals, celebrating progress—no matter how small.
Additionally, providing opportunities to explore different instruments, styles, and genres allows children to discover what resonates with them. Recognize that learning music is a journey and that perseverance is key. By showing appreciation for their efforts, parents can nurture their child’s confidence and self-esteem, making music not just a subject but a transformative part of their personal growth.
How do you identify and nurture musical talent in students?
I feel fortunate to witness and nurture the incredible musical growth of students at OWIS. Events like the OWIS Talent Show provide a platform for students to showcase their unique abilities, helping them build confidence and shine as individuals. The World Singing Day fosters a sense of unity and allows students to experience the transformative power of coming together through music as part of a global celebration.
The Music Garden brings a harmonious blend of music and nature, enabling students to connect creatively with their surroundings while exploring the beauty of music outdoors. The Winter Concert, one of the most anticipated highlights of the academic year, immerses students in theme-based performances, where they align themselves with the annual theme to learn and perform songs with meaning and purpose.
Additionally, music-based field trips offer immersive experiences that inspire students to explore music’s cultural and historical significance beyond the classroom. These opportunities not only enhance their skills but also instill a deep appreciation for music as a powerful medium for self-expression, unity, and personal growth.
How has your own musical experience shaped your approach to teaching?
Music has been an integral part of my life, shaping who I am as a teacher and a musician. My journey began in childhood, deeply inspired by my father, who was a remarkable musician. Growing up under his guidance, watching his live concerts, TV appearances, and reading about him in newspaper articles, I was motivated to follow in his footsteps. He became my role model, and his passion for music ignited my own desire to pursue it as a lifelong journey.
As a performer, I understand the unique confidence and individuality that music brings—it truly sets you apart and makes you shine. My experiences taught me the value of not just playing or creating music but also the importance of listening deeply and understanding it at a core level. These insights profoundly shape how I teach and inspire my students today.
As an adult, I pursued a Master’s in Music and a Bachelor’s in Education, equipping me to blend my passion for music with pedagogy. My journey as a music producer further expanded my horizons, allowing me to embrace technology and integrate it into my teaching. I introduce students to exciting tools like Apple music apps and other digital platforms, helping them compose music, create background scores for skits, and experiment with innovative ideas.
My approach is built on empowering students to explore their creativity and develop practical skills, ensuring they enjoy the process while learning the depth and discipline of music. Whether it’s through performing, composing, or collaborating, I strive to inspire them to realize how music can transform their lives—just as it has transformed mine.
