By: Ben Fraser
Valentine’s Day is the next major holiday after Christmas in the new year and recognized by many people from young to old. It is probably safe to say that most think of heart-shaped chocolate boxes, flowers, jewelry, and Hallmark cards on Valentine’s Day, but also love songs come to mind. Music is a way for our minds to focus on the present moments we share with each other and set our minds in the appropriate mood. A romantic candle-lit dinner on Valentine’s Day at your favorite restaurant almost always has love songs playing in the background to make that romantic dinner even more special and to set the mood!
Valentine’s Day music doesn’t only come in handy for adults on February 14th, but it is also a great way to teach young students a little bit about the history of music. There are countless love songs that come from all over the world and still linger in our pop-culture especially during this time of the year. Some classics include artists like Frank Sinatra who carried the famous love melodies of jazz throughout the 1940s and later. Shortly after, came Elvis Presley in the 1950s who stole many hearts all of over the world with his soulful voice and dashing good looks. Students who aspire to learn jazz guitar or a brass instrument, for example, would benefit from studying Frank Sinatra’s music and there are so many fun songs to choose from like “Fly Me to the Moon” or “Funny Valentine.” Elvis Presley sang some lovely love ballads like the classic, “Can’t Help Falling in Love with You” or “Love Me Tender.” Both songs would be great for voice students or for students who study voice along with an accompanying instrument like a piano for example. There are countless love songs to choose from throughout history and continue to hit the top 40 today. Next time you think of Valentine’s Day, don’t forget that the music sets the mood.