Whether you’re in your room, using headphones, or outside you can listen to music just about anywhere. At John Dewey, we’re dewin’ things differently around here.
Music is what sets John Dewey apart from other high schools. Instead of using traditional bells at the start and end of passing, we play music. Music is known to fiddle with people’s feelings and emotions, which entices them to be more excited for class.
Mr. Antonucci is one of the assistant principals at John Dewey and manages the music. As a former DJ, his background with music goes beyond his tenure at the school. “Even in my home I always have music playing… it always has to play. It makes school life much more of a pleasure. Life would be terrible if there was no music to surround us.”
While music is familiar to anyone, the freshmen were still surprised when their first period ended not with a loud reminder to usher to their next class, but rather something to get their mind out of stress and into a “flow state.” As Bella, Mr. Antonucci’s daughter put it: “ I can’t go anywhere without listening to music because it brings peace and cohesion to people’s lives.”
Shanice Sharples, a freshman at Dewey, believes it to be a good attribute of the school. “I was confused because I didn’t know if we were supposed to dance or not. I had to ask my teacher, which took me about a week or two to get used to.”
Despite people’s unique and different music tastes, we are all unified by our liking of music. You’ll catch people talking about the song or just feeling the music. “It has meaning to it and it impacts people’s perspectives. Music brings people together,” said Sharples.
Dewey also adds a festive vibe during the holiday to add to that seasonal feeling. “I enjoy when they play holiday music corresponding to the holiday, gets me in the spirit,” said Aron Reyes, a senior at Dewey. The holidays are always something to look forward to and the music helps bring out that excitement, creating a cheerful atmosphere in the school.
John Dewey has always tried to incorporate students’ ideas to the school. Students believe that picking the song choices can possibly create new bonds and make it a more connected experience. “If we allow students to choose some playlists sometimes (but appropriate) it could possibly create new bonds or friendships based on shared music interest,” said Reyes.
Music affects people differently. Some say that it brings back old memories. Others suggest that it helps them do work. Many students also find it an escape from reality. “You may gravitate to one style, but if you open your mind you may notice one genre is grabbing from another and they’re all connected,” said Mr. Antonucci.
No matter how it’s used, music is a powerful tool that can influence people’s lives. For Mr. Antonucci, his hope is to bring forth unification. “I listen to music that makes me feel good, or music that is upbeat. It makes me feel more positive about my day,” said Sharples.