The spring semester is coming to an end, which means it is time for final exams. KDI School students who are about to take their final tests and papers have recommended a playlist that they listen to while they study.

Nishtha Vengurlerkar (2021MDP)
Korean-indie music is my go-to option while studying. When I am in the mood for something groovy and foot-tapping, I listen to artists such as Hyukoh, Juarim, Se So Neon, and ADOY, while The Black Skirts, Jannabi, Surl, and Wave to Earth help to calm my nerves. I feel happy after listening to my favorite artists.

Minju Yeo (2020MPP)
I generally listen to the piano versions of Disney music while I study. This is because there are no lyrics to the music, unlike in the original versions, so I do not get too distracted. Additionally, listening to Disney music reminds me of when I was young. Remembering good memories from childhood gives me the energy to study harder. Likewise, recalling hopeful Disney movie stories reduces the stress of studying.

Axel Lemus (2020 MPP)
I typically listen to piano jazz while studying. Although I enjoy other instruments, like the trumpet, I think the piano makes it easier to concentrate. Some of my favorites while studying are the Bill Evans Trio, the Dave Brubeck Quartet, and Duke Ellington.

Badrul Arifin (2020MPM)
Music keeps me alive and active. I used to listen to my favorite slow tempo songs back when I was in school. They helped me a lot, especially when I was struggling with mathematics and physics. Music puts me in a better mood, which makes me better at studying. I enjoy listening to Coldplay or a rock classic like Queen, whose songs I play in a loop. Rhythms, melodies, and musical styles from musicians from the UK make me feel calm and more concentrated, and most importantly, I can build interest even in the most difficult subjects. In some cases, I have found that this genre helps me with memorization, likely by creating a positive mood, which indirectly boosts memory formation.

Danai Dairov (2020MPP)
I once challenged myself with the goal to learn all the works of Sergei Rachmaninoff, my favorite composer. Since then, I have gotten into the habit of listening to recordings of concerts with his participation or recordings of other performers of his music. I advise that you begin getting acquainted with his works of Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor, Op. 18.
Another popular solution for me is to listen to a live stream on YouTube in the "Study with me" format. Generally, the video plays sounds of nature, waves, or a campfire in the background. Such sounds help me to focus and create a cozy atmosphere around me.

Shine Zar Ni Tun (2020MPM)
I usually listen to classical music while studying. Classical music is both peaceful and harmonious, creating a calm and serene study environment for the listener. I enjoy taking some short study breaks with snacks and music, just to refresh my mind. Moreover, I enjoy listening to some motivational songs and songs that have strong lyrics. When I am studying for a long time, I sometimes feel isolated, so during these times, I choose the best music for studying to help me concentrate. Music that is soothing and relaxing can help me to combat stress or anxiety while studying.

Sang Woo Park (2020MPP)
Sometimes, I get stressed and feel rushed when studying. Whenever this happens, I calm myself down by listening to piano songs. I listen to a variety of piano songs, my most recommended of which are Bill Evan’s [Peace Piece] and Joe Hisaishi’s [Bygone Days], the OST of the Porco Rosso. If I had to choose between these two, I would choose [Bygone Days]. The movie Porco Rosso is one of the best movies I have ever seen, so whenever I listen to the OST, I think about the feelings I get while watching the movie.