April brought a special double-theme month to the Music Technology and Learning Lab at Michelle Tuesday Music School. Students explored musicals and video game music through listening stations, history activities, and class discussions.
At first, the two themes seemed very different. Students quickly found an important connection, though. Both styles use music to tell stories and create emotion.
Musicals: Music That Moves the Story
Students noticed how musicals combine acting, singing, dancing, and storytelling. Many recognized familiar songs from movies and stage productions.
Ellie M shared that musicals “always tell a story.” She also noticed that many musicals include large group singing instead of solo performers. Haley N explained that lyrics often match the action on stage. She also noticed how instruments build suspense during scenes.
Students also explored the history of musicals. Wynn F explained that musicals trace back to Ancient Greece. Graham G discussed how Greeks used music and theatre during worship and storytelling.
Several students pointed out how recognizable many musical songs remain today. Arianna R enjoyed “Do-Re-Mi” because it felt catchy and familiar from childhood. Beatrice V noted that actors perform songs directly on stage, which helps audiences connect to the story.
Aleksander S shared a detailed observation about musical structure. He noticed that many musical songs repeat melodies while changing the lyrics. He also explained that performers need strong breath support because they often sing while dancing and acting.
Video Game Music: From Simple Sounds to Full Scores
Students also studied the growth of video game music. Many learned that early games had very limited sound options. Owen S explained that older games used only a few simple tunes. Modern games now treat music as a major part of gameplay.
Charlie M discussed how early sound chips appeared in machines like pinball games. Over time, video game music became more advanced. Today, many games use full orchestras and detailed soundtracks.
Students often connected game music to personal memories. Terrence H talked about enjoying Sonic the Hedgehog’s “Green Hill Zone” theme because he played Sonic often as a child. Olly C explained that music helps people remember favorite games and toys.
Many students described video game music as energetic and repetitive. Conrad B explained that some songs create a “hurry up” feeling during gameplay. Emmy G noticed that the music matched the action happening in the game.
Students also identified many instruments and sounds in the listening station. Wynn F heard trumpet and electronic piano. Maddox A recognized electric piano, drums, and guitar in several Mario themes. Mila J pointed out that video game music includes many different genres, even without much singing.
Music Shapes the Experience
Students returned to one main idea throughout both themes. Music shapes how people experience stories.
Students discussed Broadway productions and favorite game soundtracks with equal excitement. They noticed how music creates emotion, builds suspense, and strengthens memorable moments.
From Broadway melodies to video game themes, students explored how music continues to evolve while still bringing people together.