One of my favorite musical recordings of all time is, "Rhapsody of Love" by Linda McKechnie. She also happens to be my mom's cousin on the Marsh side of the family. :) Linda's brother, Don Marsh, works with her to orchestrate and produce her recordings.
This cd combines classical music with love songs in a quality and non offensive fashion.
You can listen to samples of this cd and others at the website link below.
http://www.lindamckechnie.com/rhapsodyoflove.html
Linda has released other recordings as well such as "Hymnworks" and "Symphony of Praise." I used a few of her arrangements in my wedding. The mothers were seated to her arrangement of "O Perfect Love with Meditation by Thais" and my bridesmaids and I walked into her arrangement of "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring and Fairest Lord Jesus."
Once in a while when I am having an emotionally "raw" day, I play this cd as my students are doing their "seat work" It can be a great solace to the soul. I also play classical music on a daily basis in my classroom. It cheers me and is great exposure for my students and calms their spirits. I highly recommend this for anyone who teaches at home or school. It can really be an asset to the atmosphere.
I usually don't listen to music in the classroom that I know the words to as it distracts me mentally, but once in a while I will play a Sunday School song cd if we need the boost at the beginning of the day. We also sing along to a few of the songs at our opening pledges time.
Music has played an important role in my life. I am grateful that my mom taught me to discern and appreciate beautiful music. Sadly much of the music released in our Christian circles is "twangy" and lacking quality. I think it is extremely important to expose our students and families to beautiful and classy music. And if we can cheer ourselves along the way even better!
Happy Listening!
