Mind Over Music®

A STEM Initiative: Science, Technology, Engineering and Math 

Mind Over Music® is a collaborative teaching initiative that pairs symphony musicians with classroom teachers to co-teach cross-curricular topics such as math, English, science, history, and social studies. This innovative program leverages the real-world experience of musicians to enrich classroom learning and support STEM education.

Program Design:

Mind Over Music® is designed to support teachers and align with school goals. Symphony musicians work closely with each teacher to tailor lessons to the subject matter, ensuring that the content is engaging and relevant to students. This adaptive approach allows for fluid lesson plans that respond to the unique dynamics of each classroom.

Mind Over Music fosters an engaging, interdisciplinary learning environment where music serves as a bridge to integrate various academic subjects. 

If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to the Education & Community Engagement Department at [email protected] or (602) 452-0470.

Key Features:

  • Collaborative Lessons:
    • Musicians and teachers co-create multiple lessons throughout the school year, ensuring an integrated approach to teaching.
  • Professional Development:
    • Musicians and teachers participate in joint professional development sessions to enhance their collaborative teaching skills.
  • STEM Focus:
    • Lessons are designed using STEM practices such as observations, questions, predictions, modeling, problem-solving, and communicating results.
  • 21st Century Skills:
    • The program emphasizes collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, and innovation.

Lesson Examples:

  • Math Integration:
    • Fifth-grade students explore area and volume by measuring musicians and their instruments, then design a stage plot for the orchestra based on their calculations.
  • Music & Fractions:
    • Third-grade students learn to add fractions by using musical notes (half notes, quarter notes, etc.) to create their own measures of music.
  • Global Market Trends & Exploration:
    • High school students trace the scarcity of Pernambuco wood, used in top-quality violin, viola, and cello bows, back to the exploration of South America during the 16th century. 

If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to the Education & Community Engagement Department at [email protected] or (602) 452-0470.

HEAR IT HERE

Signup for our Email List

Thanks to supporters like you, the Phoenix Symphony can continue making a difference, both in Symphony Hall and throughout the community. Today, we invite you to help us inspire, lead, and strengthen our community by making a gift to The Phoenix Symphony.