Most people only see teachers in the classroom, focused on lessons and assignments, but they have personal interests outside of school too, especially when it comes to music. I asked several teachers to share a song that means a lot to them and explain the reason behind their choice. Some picks were unexpected, while others made perfect sense once I heard their stories. I also listened to every song myself and shared my own thoughts on what I enjoyed and what stood out.

Teacher: Mrs. O’Sullivan

Song: “Inside and Out” by Tyler Hubbard

Reasoning: “About six months after having my daughter, I was at a concert, and Tyler Hubbard was the opening act. ‘Inside and Out’ was one of the songs he performed, and he explained that he wrote it for his daughter, and the lyrics just resonated with me and made me think of my own children. Whenever the song plays in the car, they ask me to turn it up and sing along, because I told them it makes me think of them, so it definitely carries special meaning and is a reminder for them, how they are beautiful ‘Inside and Out,’ which is something I never want them to forget.”

My Opinion: This song feels really heartfelt and meaningful, especially after hearing your story behind it. The lyrics have a warm, emotional vibe that makes the song more personal and memorable. I can tell it means a lot to you and your family which definitely makes me see it in a new light. It’s the kind of song that feels comforting and genuine. I’d give it an 8.5/10.

Teacher: Mr. Mullane

Song: “Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd

Reasoning: “I first heard the song when my friend Owen started playing it on his guitar outside of the drama department of my high school. Everyone got quiet and stopped walking between classes as the first chords started playing. As the song built, another passing student I didn’t know started harmonizing. And by the final lines, a bunch of students sang along until it ended. Everyone clapped and dispersed, going about their day. Ever since then, I have loved this song. It brings back that memory of an unplanned moment and a bunch of kids singing together on a Wednesday for no other reason than the joy of it.”

My Opinion: This song has a really calm and emotional feel to it. I love how such a random moment at school turned into something memorable just because everyone connected through the music. The guitar and vocals give the song a nostalgic vibe. It’s the kind of song that sticks with you, I’d give it a 9/10.

Teacher: Mr. Tarby

Song: “Seasons” by DragonForce

Reasoning: “This song came out while I was starting college, and the band (DragonForce) has always been a favorite of mine. The lyrics itself are about the idea that even though things may be difficult now, for one reason or another, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. It relates our lives to seasons, essentially saying there will always be down parts (winter), but eventually winter ends, and we are greeted with spring and summer. No pain will last forever, and the sunlight will shine on our lives again. (This also has a fun acoustic version, that sounds a little different than their usual rock/metal sounds!)”

My Opinion: This song has a really inspiring and emotional message behind it. The comparison of life’s struggles to the changing seasons makes the lyrics feel relatable. Even though DragonForce is known for their intense rock and metal style, it’s cool that this song also has a softer acoustic version that gives it a different feeling. Overall I’d give it a 7/10.

Teacher: Ms. Riley

Song: “Good People” by Mumford & Sons and Pharrell Williams

Reasoning: “I love this song because of the blend of musical genres. It combines storytelling with rhythmic beats and chants: it is a song you feel deep in your bones. The themes in the song are about good people coming together and rising up to do good things. It can speak to many different situations whether those are personal struggles or more wide social issues. I tend to listen to one or two songs on repeat while I am painting, and this is one of my favorites to do that with. It is a short song with a subtle call and driving rhythm that I can lose myself in.”

My Opinion: This song has a really uplifting and powerful feel to it. The rhythmic beats and chants that Ms. Riley describes really make the song unique and meaningful. The message about good people coming together to create positive change is really inspiring. I also think it’s cool how the steady rhythm and energy make it the kind of song you can completely get lost in. Even though it’s a shorter song, it really sticks with you afterward. Overall, I’d give it a 8/10.

In total, these songs show how music can connect deeply to people’s lives, memories, and emotions. Each teacher chose a song that reflects personal experiences, whether it was overcoming difficult times, finding inspiration through creativity, or connecting with others through meaningful lyrics and rhythm. Even though the songs come from different genres and styles, they seem to all share themes of hope and emotion. Doing these articles this year has taught me that music is more than just entertainment: it can tell stories, inspire change, and stay with people long after the song ends.