Lights Up: Our Monthly Theme—Musicals 🎶
This month in the Music Technology & Learning Lab, we’re doing something a little different. It’s a double-theme month!
We’re starting with musicals, diving into storytelling through song and stage. Then, next week, we’ll shift our focus and explore video game music—another powerful way music shapes a story.
For now, let’s step into the spotlight with musicals.
Where It All Started
Musical theater has been around longer than many people realize. One of the earliest recognized musicals dates back to 1886, when productions began blending songs, dialogue, and dance into a unified story.
At first, these shows focused more on entertainment than storytelling. However, that quickly began to change.
Broadway Takes the Stage
As musicals evolved, Broadway became the heart of the art form in the United States. It wasn’t just a place—it became a symbol of creativity and performance at the highest level.
Over time, Broadway helped shape musical theater into a uniquely American art form. Shows grew more ambitious, combining memorable music with stronger narratives.
The Golden Age of Musicals
Eventually, musical theater entered what is often called its Golden Age. During this time, storytelling became a major focus.
Songs were no longer just catchy moments. Instead, they moved the plot forward and revealed character emotions.
This shift made musicals more immersive. Audiences weren’t just watching—they were experiencing the story in a deeper way.
Modern Musicals: Then Meets Now
Today, musicals continue to evolve while still honoring their roots. Many modern productions blend traditional storytelling with new sounds and styles.
Some well-known examples include:
- The Lion King – A visually stunning adaptation with powerful music
- Hamilton – A groundbreaking mix of hip-hop and history
- The Phantom of the Opera – A long-running classic with dramatic flair
- KPop Demon Hunters – A newer example blending pop culture and storytelling
- Wicked – A fresh perspective on a familiar story
- Dear Evan Hansen – A modern, emotional look at connection and identity
Each of these shows highlights how musicals can adapt to new generations while keeping storytelling at their core.
Why Musicals Matter in Music Lessons
At MTMS, exploring musicals helps students connect music to storytelling. It also builds skills like:
- Listening for emotion in music
- Understanding how rhythm and melody support a story
- Exploring different musical styles
- Developing creativity through composition and performance
In other words, musicals bring music to life in a way that feels relatable and exciting.
What’s Coming Next 👀
Next week, we’ll introduce the second half of our double theme: video game music.
Students will discover how composers use music to shape gameplay, build tension, and create unforgettable worlds. It’s a completely different setting—but just like musicals, it’s all about storytelling through sound.
Take the Stage in the Lab
This month, students will listen to musical selections, learn about their history, and even try creating their own musical-style compositions.
Then, we’ll level up and explore video game music next week.
So next time you hear a song from a musical, ask yourself:
What part of the story is this telling?
You might be surprised by what you discover.