When I think back on my time teaching in Thailand, one memory stands out more than any other: music. 

At Rajabhat Phetchaburi (now known as Phetchaburi Rajabhat University), where I taught, music was a cornerstone of connection and celebration. It didn’t take long for me to realize that Thailand has an unmatched appreciation for music, and that love was infectious.

I fondly remember being at school events and finding a microphone suddenly placed in front of me. “Sing for us!” they’d say with bright smiles. At first, I was taken aback, but the enthusiasm of my students and colleagues was irresistible. Singing at events became a regular part of my experience. Those moments taught me that music is more than just entertainment - it’s a universal language that fosters connection and joy.

Teaching in Thailand: more than just a job

Teaching English at Rajabhat Phetchaburi was rewarding in ways I never expected. Thailand’s vibrant culture, its warm people, and its students’ eagerness to learn made every day special. I found that music wasn’t just a way to entertain; it was an effective teaching tool. A simple song could break down language barriers, engage even the most reserved students, and turn a routine lesson into something memorable.

A New Chapter: alternative dance music meets education

Those musical moments in Thailand planted a seed that has since grown into a unique project. Today, I create alternative dance songs paired with free teaching materials for English learners and teachers. The idea is simple: combine engaging, modern music with practical resources to make learning English more accessible and enjoyable.

Music is powerful—it engages emotions, improves memory, and creates a sense of rhythm that aids language learning. By blending my love for music with my teaching experience, I hope to give teachers a fresh set of tools to inspire their students, just as Thailand inspired me.

Embracing the Thai love of music

If you’re considering teaching in Thailand, my advice is this: embrace the country’s love of music, you’ll find that music can open doors to connections you never imagined.

For me, those impromptu singing sessions at Rajabhat Phetchaburi weren’t just fun; they were a foundation for a deeper connection with my students and colleagues that made my time in Thailand unforgettable.

If you’re curious about the materials I’ve created, feel free to explore them here. They’re a small way of paying forward the lessons I learned in Thailand - lessons about connection, creativity, and the universal power of music.