So, you’re back from winter break and have been thrown into the chaos that is classes and studying once again. Even during syllabus week, getting back to work can be tricky, especially in terms of motivation. After such a nice, relaxing break, it can be difficult to get back in the studying groove.
One trick I’ve discovered is to listen to music. Not just any kind of music though. I’m not talking about Taylor Swift or Beyoncé, though both are incredible. I am talking about instrumental scores.
I know what you’re thinking, “What are you talking about? Instrumental scores?” Oh, yeah. I’m talking movie and TV show scores. Depending on which show or film you choose, your study session can become the most intense thing you’ll do all day.
Here are a few of my favorites:
1) The Pirates of the Caribbean
Composed by Hans Zimmer and Klaus Badelt, the seafaring themes in the Pirates of the Caribbean soundtrack will instantly make you feel as though you’re fighting for your life on the high seas alongside the dashing Captain Jack Sparrow. This score will make you want to plunder your textbooks.
2) Game of Thrones
The HBO show is known for both its talented cast, as well as its daring and intense plot. How is intensity best portrayed to an audience, though? Through music! These compositions will place you on an extreme journey across Westeros. Ramin Djawadi’s “Main Title” will have you drawing dragons and house crests all over your notebooks.
3) Kick-Ass and Kick-Ass 2
You’ll kick ass while listening to either of these scores. These action films tackle the classic superhero tropes with humor and an electronic music style, composed by Henry Jackman, John Murphy, and Marius De Vries. While the Pirates of the Caribbean and Game of Thrones soundtracks are both relatively similar, the Kick-Ass and Kick-Ass 2 soundtracks offer a good mix of upbeat sounds and modern battle themes.
4) Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings
These soundtracks are classic. Having grown up watching the movies, I can clearly see each scene in my mind as the score plays. But, both of these iconic scores can be tricky to study with, because they are so familiar. Being able to picture the scenes so distinctly can be distracting at times. Nonetheless, their intensity will add a little bit of fantasy to your papers.
5) Indiana Jones and Star Wars
These amazing George Lucas films have brilliant musical themes that will take you on several extravagant adventures. The timeless main themes of both Indiana Jones and Star Wars are great background music for any essay or writing assignment, as are most of John Williams’ other works.
There are so many other amazing scores out there that are great for studying with, but these are just a few of my favorites. Whatever score you choose to study with, make sure it has a badass theme. I guarantee your studying will become more awesome than you ever would have expected it to.
So, go off and conquer your exams, slay your textbooks, and kick ass with your papers! Happy spring semester!