Chemistry and music

Over the Easter holiday, I spent some time playing in the viola section of the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra. I’ve worked with many professional orchestras around the world and each time I find there are a large number of chemistry graduates playing alongside me. I’ve always believed it is important to couple the study of sciences with arts-based subjects so our pupils develop into fully rounded individuals. I also believe there is more to it than just giving students an all-round education.

Is there something in the arts that supports and enhances the study of the sciences? Can music and the arts help improve our students’ understanding of chemistry? With the current move away from arts subjects in schools, now is the time to look at the impact they have on our pupils’ education.

Peter Banks discusses how, by taking an interest in our pupils’ hobbies and tailoring our teaching to a class’s interests, we can often improve their learning experience.