Deep in the brain there is a band of white fibers called the corpus callosum. Researchers have discovered that the corpus callosum increases in size when humans are exposed to quiet, classical music. This increase in size increases the communication between the two hemispheres of the brain which, in turn, increases learning efficiency.
The Cozy Classroom Collection is a selection of piano compositions which have been specifically selected, performed, arranged, edited, and recorded to facilitate learning. You will be able to download them for all your favorite devices. Play the music at a low level while you or your students are learning a new concept, reviewing material, or quietly studying.
Enjoy!
All Star Review
Review: The Cozy Classroom Collection CD
Review: The Cozy Classroom Collection CDReviewed July 2003
Synopsis: The Cozy Classroom Collection CD is a collection of 30 classical piano compositions that have been selected to facilitate learning. The composers are mainly Bach, Mendelssohn, Chopin, and Beethoven.
Age-Appropriateness: All age levels will enjoy this relaxing music.
Educational Value: Studies have shown that certain kinds of classical music are beneficial to the learning setting. Music can reduce stress, accelerate learning, help in retention of facts, improve test scores, and increase IQ’s. This CD is designed to be played quietly in the background while studying or relaxing to aid in the learning process.
Sound: The pieces are simply arranged with no extra orchestral accompaniment. Most are familiar or recognizable.
Conclusion: This is an excellent collection of well-known classical piano pieces which is soothing to listen to. As well as its effect on learning, It would make a great introduction to classical music for the reluctant student.
Ages:All
Rating (out of 5): 
Eclectic Homeschool
Review: The Cozy Classroom Collection CD
Classical Piano Arrangements Conducive to Learning
The Cozy Classroom Collection CD features Marie Rackham playing 72 minutes of classical piano music, comprised of 30 selections. This collection has been carefully selected, performed, arranged, edited and recorded to facilitate learning.
This CD comes with some interesting facts. Most of us have heard that music increases learning potential, but were you aware that in recent years many studies have been conducted that confirm the rumor? These confirming studies show interesting results: “increased IQ’s, accelerated learning, greater retention of material learned, higher test scores, and reduced stress and tension.”
Ms. Rackham plays the piano with a finesse that is not only heard, but felt. Her selections are peaceful and her abilities to perform them are extraordinary. Even though I play the piano myself, musicians often interpret songs differently. I plan on making a few changes to mimic her interpretations myself. For example, the tempo in some of her songs is a little livelier than the way I learned them, and in others the crescendos aren’t as great as I have played them in the past.
This CD has become a blessed reminder of why God allowed pianos to be invented in the first place. I highly recommend it to all who are in need of a respite.
Resource Links Magazine
Review: The Cozy Classroom Collection
Music CD – 72 minutes
Performed by Marie Rackham
Grades: Pre-school – Adult
“In recent years many studies have been conducted on the effects of classical music on learning. The results of these studies are interesting and varied: increased I.Q., accelerated learning, greater retention of material learned, high test scores, and reduced stress and tension, to name a few.” (taken from liner notes)
Assuming this theory that music enhances learning is correct, retired teacher Marie Rackham has performed, recorded, and compiled a CD of well-known classical piano music. There are 30 tracks, most of which are two to three minutes in length. The music is entirely piano, without orchestral accompaniment and is soothing and pleasant for quiet background listening. Most of the music (22 tracks) is Bach, Mendelssohn and Beethoven. Other composers include Chopin, Handel, Mozart, Schubert, Bergmuller and Debussy.
Marie Rackham has put this theory to practical use. “…While I worked on their organizational skills, I also addressed their hyperactivity. First, I encouraged them to reduce their consumption of “junk” food…and second, I played tapes of quiet, classical music…the results were amazing. Ten to fifteen minutes into the class the hyperactivity reduced and learning was able to take place.” (taken from press release) “Play the CD at a low level while the students are being taught a new concept, or while they are studying independently” (taken from liner notes)
This is a lovely recording of piano arrangements which serves as an excellent introduction for young people to classical music and hopefully enhances their learning as they listen and enjoy!
