Poetry from David Sapp

Relentless Beauty

On this relentless

Occasion, out

Of a white fog,

No discernible horizon

Anywhere, a ubiquitous

Bliss is this simple:

Snow falls all day,

Into dusk, into night,

Snow arrives, descends

Until it doesn’t.

Snow heaps upon,

Clings to, every branch,

Birch and pine alike,

Every brittle, abiding 

Leaf, and needle,

Curved to a burden,

A clerestory tracery,

A soaring vaulting,

A crystalline nave (This occasion, more

Rare than Rome,

The Villa Borghese,

First stanza to the left,

Bernini’s pale Daphne, 

Delicate, marble fingertips

Turning to laurel

,Leafing in her flight).

Bliss is simply this:

Snow on the apple

Limbs, easily prolific

Blossoms in May.

I long to recall

This relentless beauty

Again and again,

Return to this vision

From time to time,

A salve for absurdity

(Relentless frailty),

Assuaging the ugly

Bedlam of humanity,

This occasion for bliss.

Resilience

Remnants of the hurricane

(I forgot its given name),

Incidental Atlantic fragments,

Rent half the tree, splintered

All usual assumptions,

Filled the driveway with carnage

–I could not escape – foliage,

Abandoned nests, brittle, broken,

Misplaced arms and legs,

Sheared at the joints.

Certainly, I’m not indifferent.I didn’t hear, didn’t notice

The spectacular slaughter,

No sounds at all while

I pursued my routine.

Instead, from my recliner,

I watched the wind tug

At a spider’s web, modest

Basilica, architectural marvel,

Moored in the window niche.

I admired the resilience,

Stronger than the wooden giant,

The white, woven silk,

Easily erased, no trace,

With a flick of my broom.

I’d cut the bough in convenient

Slices, for firewood, for flame,

But my saw was getting fitted

With a new set of teeth.

The body will lie there 

Until next week, naked

Corpse in the street.

After several more storms,

The web remains steadfast,

And the tree begins its decay.

David Sapp, writer and artist, lives along the southern shore of Lake Erie in North America. A Pushcart nominee, he was awarded Ohio Arts Council Individual Excellence Grants for poetry and the visual arts. His poetry and prose appear widely in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. His publications include articles in the Journal of Creative Behavior, chapbooks Close to Home and Two Buddha, a novel Flying Over Erie, and a book of poems and drawings titled Drawing Nirvana.

Poetry from Xo‘jamiyorova Gulmira

Young Central Asian woman's headshot. She's tilted to the left, has long dark hair, brown eyes, small earrings, and a ruffled blouse.

Classmate

Do you remember, my classmate,

That first step into the schoolyard?

When I recall those cheerful days,

Tears of longing fill my eyes.

At seven years old — pure and innocent,

I felt the joy of being a pupil.

The school stood tall before me,

And I called it my “dear sanctuary.”

Do you remember our first teacher,

Who loved us like her own children?

She was our mountain of trust,

Her heart aflame for our young souls.

I still remember clearly

That little Alphabet Day celebration,

The verses I recited back then —

I cried today, recalling them.

Do you remember our mischief?

How we leapt so high when thrown to the ground?

Those moments were full of joy,

When we knew nothing of sorrow.

The first-time snow fell for us,

Oh, the delight — I still recall it.

Today I searched for those days in vain,

But they melted away with the snow.

When my mother braided my hair finely,

I couldn’t wait to run to school.

Each time I stepped onto its threshold,

I smiled with a child’s heart.

Do you remember, at the start of recess,

We’d run and race to the door.

No one could block our way —

We’d quarrel, then make peace again.

I remember the gloomy rainy days,

When we hurried home in the rain.

Today I searched for those moments again,

But they remain locked in my heart.

Years passed — we became young men and women,

Yet our mischief never truly left us.

Before time, we are powerless —

No one can bring those days back.

 
Spring returned, though the past did not,

It reminded me of our school garden.

Once we brought an armful of roses,

Decorating every corner of the classroom.

We filled each lesson with chatter and laughter,

Even troubling our teachers at times.

True, we were mischievous —

But our hearts were pure, like children’s.

We were in one class, one family,

Always ready to stand together.

Whatever the trial or sorrow,

We faced it side by side.

Skipping the last lessons of the day —

Why don’t we value school more?

We should have known those days would end,

Yet we never looked back with care.

When I recall it, my heart overflows with memories,

Appearing one by one before my eyes.

Our playful school years are now behind us,

Ahead lies a fate full of tests.

Though we cannot be together in one class again,

Our shared memories will last forever.

The final ring of the last school bell

Brought childhood rushing back to me.

Do you remember, my classmate,

That first step into the schoolyard?

When I recall those cheerful days,

Tears of longing fill my eyes.

Xo‘jamiyorova Gulmira Abdusalom qizi was born on June 25, 2004, in the Surkhandarya region of Uzbekistan. While studying at School No. 22 in Uzun district, she actively participated in mother tongue and literature Olympiads, earning distinguished awards. In 2022, she was admitted to Termiz State Pedagogical Institute on a full state grant. She is a graduate of Shine Girls Academy and the Formula for Success program, and a member of the “Qo‘sh Qanot” Union of Poets and Writers (Creative Foundation) in Kazakhstan. Her creative portfolio includes numerous scientific and journalistic articles, as well as original poems, which have been published in international newspapers, literary journals, and anthologies. She has received multiple international certificates and was honored with a commemorative badge by Quality Publication publishing house in recognition of her literary achievements.

Tan-renga poetry from Jerome Berglund and Christina Chin


Christina Chin (plain) 

Jerome Berglund (italic) 

Ringtones

my universe 

in his shirt pocket 

heartbeats

consistently 

inconsistent   

phonetic bliss 

he mispronounces 

croissant

a word 

in edgewise

our favourite spot

now it’s just a word 

for love

afterhours 

club 

bonus of a playful twist 

our shared notes app

is just “honey” 

welcoming new deity

to the household 

and honey I forgot

love as digital-age 

sweetness

ripples from the 

central fountain 

Synchronized Chaos Mid-August Issue: Layers Upon Layers

Contributor Abigail George would like to share a new project of hers: a blog called Mentally Sound that features articles, updates, a magazine, poetry, and uplifting music. In this day and age, so many things can affect our mental health. Please feel free to join the blog and blog about your own experiences or loving someone who has a mood disorder or an individual who is suffering from depression. Log in, blog, do read the posts and leave comments to inspire our growing community!

Now for this issue’s theme: Layers Upon Layers.

Layers of red rock in the desert with a tiny corner of blue sky and a small woody shrub with green leaves.
Image c/o Ken Kistler

For we are all bound in stories, and as the years pile up they turn to stone, layer upon layer, building our lives. – Steven Erikson

This month’s contributions deal with the complexities of nature, history, culture, language, or even the psyche of a single person. Everything we choose or experience builds upon itself to make us who we are, even short-lived experiences.

Yucheng Tao’s poetry collection April No Longer Comes, published by Alien Buddha Press and reviewed by Cristina Deptula, explores moments of love and beauty that are wonderful and transient, like the season of spring. Sean Lee’s poems remind us that even fleeting moments can be meaningful and beautiful. Jian Yeo’s poetry touches on the pain and beauty we can find in mortality. Mykyta Ryzhykh contributes surreal images of life, death, and the cycle of modern existence. John Grey’s poetry explores comings and goings, presences and disappearances.

Yoonji Huh presents nature, family tenderness, and humor with a color scheme that looks historical and weathered. Gwil James Thomas speaks in several tough-minded pieces to memories and dreams and our sources of inspiration. Sean Lee’s artwork evokes the power of the imagination to illuminate daily life. Alina Lee’s poetry suggests that our pasts and futures comprise layers of each moment in which we find ourselves. JK Kim’s poetry looks at summer scenes with a calm nostalgia, after events have passed. Alexis Lee’s poems probe what we choose to value and remember, what we invest in and find beautiful. Olivia Koo probes the nature of memory, how multiple moments combine to craft a mental impression and feeling. Ah-Young Dana Park’s poetry comments on our changing memories and perspectives as time passes and we age. Chloe Park’s art revels in exquisite detail, probing culture and memory with intricacy. Sally Lee provides poetic snapshots of moments in time, considering whether they have meaning or value without context.

Person's hand holding an old black and white photograph and some flowers. Daisies, baby's breath, a pink flower.
Image c/o Victoria Borodinova

Seoyun Park’s visuals speak to how we observe and confront life, the dangers we face and those we pose. Ethan Lee’s poems remind us of the underside of our world: the everyday grotesque and the many layers of the ordinary. Irene Kim’s work explores the strain and melancholy that can permeate ordinary moments. Austin Chung’s poetry illustrates various kinds of disorder and dispersion as Taylor Dibbert vents his annoyance at the common problem of loud museum patrons. Lauren Kim stays with a single scene from everyday life for an entire poem, probing its layers. Haeun Regina Kim’s poetry examines ordinary objects and animals in depth, sharing details and language to create an off-kilter feel.

Brian Barbeito also explores deeply, focusing in on the flora and fauna of an Aruba resort. Debabarata Sen celebrates the verdant beauty of Costa Rica. David Sapp’s poetic speakers become waylaid by the arresting color and beauty of nature. Dylan Hong’s pieces present a gentle, abstract, even whimsical peek at nature. Grace Lee’s poetry crafts dreamlike, gentle, floating scenes. Terry Trowbridge’s pieces on peach harvests evoke the challenging economics and natural realities of farming. Mahbub Alam reminds us of the innate rough wildness of nature: storms, volcanoes, huge predators.

Jacques Fleury translates Dr. Jason Allen Paissant’s poem “Treeness,” about threats humankind poses to trees and the natural world, into Haitian Creole in a collaboration with Dr. Rachel Rome to provide music and poetry for the Boston Public Garden.

Sayani Mukherjee evokes the rhythm of a public piano played for big city pedestrians in a rainstorm. Eva Petropoulou Lianou waxes poetic about the beauty of the moon. Noriniso Kasimova shares memories of spring in her hometown and her father’s love. Chinese poet Su Yun collects a group of short poems from elementary school students, mostly impressions of natural scenes. Dhani M.’s artwork stylizes natural scenes to create emotional senses of calm, curiosity, and wonder. Jinwoo Brian Park’s art suggests that we can re-incorporate the old into the new, the natural into the artificial.

Stylized blue and white and pink image of an analog clock with lit candles at its base.
Image c/o Linnaea Mallette

Mark Young contributes a fresh set of fanciful geographies. G. Emil Reutter humorously describes noisy construction’s impact on local residents. Erin Kim’s artwork explores the upsides and downsides of civilization’s technological progress. Katie Hong’s work critiques our isolation and obsession with technology as Xushnudbek Yakubov warns of the dangers of online misinformation. Sophie Yoon’s art critiques our complex relationship with consumption and the natural world. Eugene Han’s art explores who we are and where we’re going as humans, and our relationships with nature. Shabbona Abdurashidova highlights the importance of sustainable ecology in Uzbekistan. Jahin Claire Oh’s work speculates on how the world’s other creatures might see us: mimicking and learning from them, drifting into or penetrating their environments.

J.K. Durick speaks to new, wild, and real frontiers in modern nature and technology, commenting on our efforts to understand and control them. Pulkita Anand evokes the mental and physical disorientation brought on by the colonization of one’s land.

Ahmed Miqdad calls the world to action to help suffering civilians in Gaza. Patricia Doyne also calls the world’s attention to starvation in Gaza. Stephen Jarrell Williams speaks to the numbing, mindless destruction of war.

Poet Eva Petropoulou Lianou illuminates themes of patriotism and sacrifice in Algeria’s quest for independence in Turkia Loucif’s fantasy novel The Legend of a Squirrel. Yuldasheva Xadichaxon outlines themes of resilience and patriotism in Resat Nuri Guntekin’s novel The Clinging Bird.

Cover of an old leather book with designs and some fading.
Image c/o Anna Langovna

Abdisattorova Xurshida highlights the contrasting legacies of Genghis Khan and Amir Temur. Abdisattorova Hurshida reflects on her admiration for Uzbek martial artist Abdulbosit Abdullayev. Maftuna Rustamova and Chorsanbiyeva Gulnoza poetize in honor of the military personnel who serve and guard Uzbekistan. Zumrad Sobirova celebrates the poetic beauty and pride of her Uzbek heritage. Jumaniyozova Nazokat encourages Uzbekistan’s young people to develop a greater appreciation for their heritage by visiting points of historical interest.

Nilufar Moydinova’s essay highlights language’s inextricable interconnection with thought, life, and culture. Mauro Montacchiesi creates a dialogue of philosophical thoughts and poetry between Dr. Jernail Singh and Rabindranath Tagore. Federico Wardal speaks to his long admiration for artist Andy Warhol and director and screen writer Federico Fellini. Orolova Dinora explores layers of meaning in Antoine St. Exupery’s The Little Prince as Surayyo Nosirova celebrates the heritage of Uzbek author Alexandr Faynberg.

Reagan Shin revels in the comfort and ecstasy and happy memories she finds in books. Mushtariybegim Ozodbekova highlights the power of books and stories to transcend time, culture, age, and space. Panoyeva Jasmina O’tkirovna highlights ways language teachers can help students develop fluency through relevant speaking and grammar practice. Turg’unov Jonpo’lat explores techniques to help children of all abilities to learn foreign languages. Nafosat Jovliyeva and Dilshoda Jurayeva illustrate gamification and other creative strategies for language learning. Rahimova Dilfuza Abdinabiyevna discusses ways to improve student competence with writing and speaking. Hilola Badriddinova outlines strategies used throughout the developed world to teach foreign languages.

Linda S. Gunther contributes a craft essay on “interviewing” your characters to better understand them as a writer. Paul Tristram’s poetry explores the heroic narratives we create through our writing and our lives. Gloria Ameh evokes the visceral sensations of writing on topics close to the bone.

Old style writing desk with a wooden chair and wood floor and papers for an ink pen. Window and cot in the room.
Image c/o Ken Kistler

Abigail George writes a stream of consciousness essay on her vulnerabilities from mental illness and just plain existing as a female-bodied person and how enduring them inspired her to write. Soumen Roy also connects beauty to vulnerability, speaking to the fading Mona Lisa and the union of joy and sorrow as fellow travelers.

J.J. Campbell reflects on disillusionment, loss, and the eternal quest, against all odds, for love. Mesfakus Salahin speaks evocatively of his quest for love and freedom. Baxtiniso Salimova’s poetry tells an epic love story. Mirta Liliana Ramirez relates intense grief at the loss of her lover. Dilnoza Islomova expresses her gratitude for her mother’s tender care. Bill Tope and Doug Hawley collaborate on a love story that turns unexpectedly tender. Urazaliyeva Sarvinoz shares an emotional tale of jealousy, love, and forgiveness between two twin sisters. Sarvinoz Orifova expresses gratitude for her parents’ constant love and care. Wazed Abdullah expresses his love and gratitude for his mother. Ozodbek Narzullayev expresses his love for his mother and invites her to share her life struggles with him for support. Xurshida Abdisattorova shares the story of a mother’s complicated grief for an imperfect husband and father who passes away in a sudden accident. Shoxrukh Fayzulla o’g’li Dusmatov speaks to his mother’s love and care and how wealth alone matters little without compassion and humanity.

To’raqulova Pokiza Sanjarovna speaks to the need for human compassion, wisdom, respect, and personal development. Hamza Kamar’s poetry expresses his powerful hopes for a transcendent hero. Bhagirath Chowdhary expresses his determination to avoid the next life until he has finished roaming this world, offering blessings to others. Charles Taylor’s short story probes our ethics and the extent of the compassion we owe our friends and fellow humans.

Julia Kanno reminds residents of the USA that most Latino immigrants are hardworking people with lives and dreams. Bill Tope presents a tale of a survivor’s search for justice for a sexual assault that shattered her psyche. Abdisattorova Khurshida presents a tale of thievery exposed.

Flat, mosaic like image of a crowd of diverse people, men and women, different races and ages, all dressed pretty warmly in suits, coats, dresses.
Image c/o Linnaea Mallette

Graciela Noemi Villaverde shares a poem on the joy of community and diversity and welcoming special education students. Haeun Regina Kim’s artwork explores unity and acceptance of others, as well as harmony among rural and urban areas. Nabijonova Madinabonu outlines how sharing coffee can help us build building friendship and community. Khudoyqulova Shahzoda highlights Uzbekistan’s programs to enhance economic opportunities for low income women and families and the disabled.

Nazarova Moxiniso looks into discipline and student character development as part of Uzbek preschool education. Ulsanam Ulmasovna outlines Amir Temur’s contributions to the Uzbek education system. Islomov Inomjon describes the Geoment, a device to teach mathematical reasoning to children with low or no vision.

Bozorboyeva Iroda offers encouragement for young people to find and follow their own dreams. Khudoykulova Shahzoda points out consequences of and solutions to youth unemployment.

Abdurayimov Faxriddin suggests strategies for teaching music practice and theory for children. Colombian philosopher and author Dr. Tayron Achury interviews Dr. Alexander Klujev, professor of musicology, about the increasing role of human personality and feeling in modern classical music.

Greg Gildersleeve’s pieces speculate on how small individuals can claim agency in a large world. Akramov G’ulomnazar’s poetry asserts his courage and resilience. Ashirova Dilrabo Ermatovna urges us to stay motivated and persevere towards our goals.

Space shuttle Discovery, with a fuselage and two rockets, under a full moon.
Image c/o Jean Beaufort

Various contributors celebrate notable people who should be better known, or highlight important research work. Sobirjonova Rayhona outlines the career and accomplishments of Uzbek woman mathematician and teacher Shodmonova Hilola. Eshmurodova Sevinch highlights the need for training for employees in Uzbekistan’s banking industry in digital technology to modernize industry. Muslima Olimova highlights strategies corporations have used to adapt to stay on top in a digital world. Jo’rayev Ulug’bek outlines engineering techniques for strengthening concrete structures. Mirzaolimov Mirabbos probes the medical relationship between diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Ostanaqulov Xojiakbar speculates on how to improve web search engine optimization to improve online communication and website findability. Orozboyeva Mohina Nuraliyevna outlines the role and history of psychology as practiced in Uzbekistan.

On a more psychological level, Duane Vorhees’ poetry covers and highlights human complexity: different aspects to our personalities, different choices we can make, how we can change with time. James Benger’s poetry explores the fear and tension underlying our individual existences, the danger from geologic pressure, storms, raw meat – and how we sometimes find hope to carry forward.

Andrew Ban shares restless, random thoughts, finding commonalities with all humanity while acknowledging the need to protect and defend himself if needed. Dongeon Kim’s work presents scenes of intense human and natural energy while Texas Fontanella revels in the pure sound of non-representational language. Dennis Daly wanders through a variety of human feelings, from nostalgia to frustration to faith. Michael Robinson shares his journey and heritage of faith, how he found a spiritual home and refuge in Christ and the church. Muhammad Sanusi Adam speaks to struggle, resilience, destiny, creation, and faith.

Gaurav Ojha seeks out meaning in a confusing and vast world, ultimately affirming everyone’s ability to find their own truths. We hope that reading this issue helps you to find a smidgen of truth for your own life.

Poetry from Duane Vorhees

NIRVANAMAN

My body is the border

between light and my shadow.

Sometimes I wear the lion,

sometimes the chameleon.

Where is my Nirvana Man,

the one who can quit crawling

among the identities

who inhabit my being?

I am like hostile siblings

hiding inside my human,

senator/saint/assassin.

All drunk on sweet wildgod wines.

COHABITATION

One’s freedom designs one’s doom,

and doom patterns one’s freedom.

Domesticated as one,

a different damascene

dominates each domain.

One decorates Notre Dame

and one does Nostradamus.

Thingdom is my domicile–

loud energy and atoms,

dumb gravity’s domination

YOU ARE MY JACKPOT

I won you on a poker hand.

I thought he thought I was bluffing

so I said, “Double or nothing.”

He had two 10s and a 7

and I had two 10s and a 9.

But when he lost he was laughing,

and I didn’t see my danger,

I didn’t know that I was stuck.

I’m still eager to ante up

to gamble with friends and strangers.

They won’t take you as my wager,

so I never have any luck.

LA SREVER S’EFIL

When I went to sea

My mama warned me:

Bewre, my son,

the breakers,

the banks, and the bars.”

dilated — deleted — deluded:

that man now cast by shadow

a fleeting ex-star’s cameo in some other’s dream

distort-reflected from the funhouse mirror

a wivk to darken the lightness

noonday moon’s dry rain

a spectator prpjected from zoo’s perspective

faint notes inhaled from the tuba

downside in outside up

When I went to sea

My mama warned me:

Bewre, my son,

the breakers,

the banks, and the bars.”

NYUN

“When birds

lose their plumes in the sand,

they can’t

glue balloons to thir hands.

They can’t fly

so they die.”

— traditional blues song

The years are like so many sweet girls.

They cuddle against the navel in the middle of the night.

They change O the challenge the body

with pain with delight.

But though the waist is gone, its shadow yet remains.

   Is this what we needed?

   To lie in fields that we seeded

   with the sperm of you/and/me?

My skin is a wrinkledup grocery sack,

all the goodies unpacked and eaten long ago.

My erection turned into ice yesterday,

my eyelids into snow.

But though this face is gone, the halo yet remains.

   All the stones unheeded…. The skies…. The fields….

   Back have kneeded into worms, my butterflies.

And the years. And the years: just like the sweet young girls!

Hanging in memory like leather kites,

gaufy garish stabbing harsh neon lights

to mark the passing of fond remembered rites.

But though this voice is gone, its cho yet remains.

   Is this what we needed?

   To die in fields which receded with the germs of yesterday?

*

(A toast: Time is a precious necklace bequested upon your birth. As time’s beneficiary, you must realize its worth. Though age emcircles your throat with its usual yearly pearl, the worth rests in the wearer and not within the jewel.)

*

The Duane you loved is gone:

There’s a Stranger in his skin.

The old duane was younger,

and the new one’s bones are thin.

Former laughs reform as coughs.

The change cloud=to=clod begins.

*

“When birds lose their plumes in the sand,

They can’t glue balloons to their hands,

They can’t fly so they die.”

[nyun is a Korean homonym that means years of floozies]

Essay from Abdurayimov Faxriddin

Central Asian man in a white coat and bowtie and medals on his chest and his hand on his heart.

THE TEACHER’S SKILL IN SPARKING STUDENT INTEREST IN MUSIC THEORY AT CHILDREN’S MUSIC SCHOOLS
By Abdurayimov Fahriddin Muhammadali og‘li
Drum & Percussion Instructor, Children’s Music & Art School No. 6, Izboskan District


Abstract

This article explores the critical role of a teacher’s skill in fostering genuine interest in music theory among young students at music schools. Its aim is to share methods and approaches that make music theory engaging and effective. It outlines ways to boost motivation and curiosity through creative teaching methods and pedagogical techniques, with the goal of achieving success in music education.

Keywords: Music theory · Children’s music school · Teaching skill · Motivation · Teaching methods · Creative approach · Interactive instruction · Pedagogy · Music education · Student interest · Rhythm · Chords · Musical rules · Composition · Musical development


Introduction

Teaching music theory in children’s music and art schools is essential not only for developing musical skills but also for expanding thinking, nurturing creativity, and shaping aesthetic values. Music theory comprises the foundational principles of music—crucial for both composition and performance. However, it can often feel dry or challenging for students, especially when delivered in a purely academic style. That’s why teachers need specific strategies to make theory both interesting and effective.

A teacher’s skill—with creative approaches, pedagogical acumen, and musical knowledge—is vital to spark student interest in theoretical subjects. This not only helps students learn but also nurtures their love for music and the arts. An individual approach is crucial too—each child has unique learning needs and styles. Innovative techniques, interactive instruction, games, and creative exercises are necessary to engage students in theory lessons.


Core Content & Pedagogical Methods

1. Teacher’s Pedagogical Mastery
A teacher must adapt lessons to individual learners, make complex concepts simple through real-life examples, and act as a positive role model. Mastery in presentation style is essential for student engagement and understanding.

2. Motivation and Engagement
Teachers should identify and leverage students’ intrinsic motivations. Demonstrating music theory through familiar genres or famous composers can captivate students. Providing enjoyable tasks, recognizing progress, and encouraging mistakes-as-learning moments further fuel interest.

3. Innovative Teaching Methods
Employ interactive strategies: turn lessons into games, use music software, audio-visual aids, or online platforms. Learning rhythm through listening, analysis, games, and apps enhances engagement and concept retention.

4. Individualized Instruction
Personalize tasks based on student ability—challenge advanced learners and support others. Build strong rapport, adjust lessons to strengths and interests, and nurture each child’s musical potential.

5. Practical Exercises and Application
Incorporate hands-on practice: rhythm drills, melodic improvisation, composition tasks, and analysis of musical structures. Such activity-based learning solidifies theoretical knowledge through real experience.

6. Making Theory Clear and Fun
Explain chords, intervals, rhythms, and musical rules with interactive exercises or visual tools. Introduce students to various musical styles and cross-disciplinary connections.


Conclusion & Recommendations

A teacher’s pedagogic skill, creative thinking, and use of innovative methods are essential for making music theory engaging and effective. Capturing students’ attention, boosting motivation, tailoring lessons, and combining theory with practical tasks all support musical growth.

Recommendations:

  1. Use interactive and creative methods—games, simulations, music apps—to enhance engagement.
  2. Tailor lessons to each student’s learning style and interests.
  3. Encourage and reward student effort to build motivation.
  4. Blend theoretical content with practical activity and composition.
  5. Broaden students’ musical perspective by introducing varied genres.
  6. Manage lesson time wisely for focus and comprehension.
  7. Stay current—attend seminars, workshops, and continue professional development.
  8. Promote collaborative learning—group projects, peer interaction, and team-based music creation.

Implementing these approaches will boost teaching quality and foster deeper student involvement in music theory, nurturing their musical development.


References

  1. U.K. Mirzayeva. Theory and Methods of Music Education. Tashkent, 2018.
  2. A.T. Khoshimov. Pedagogical Technologies and Innovations. Tashkent, 2017.
  3. J.S. Tarkhanov. Innovative Methods in Teaching Music Theory. Tashkent, 2020.
  4. www.musictheory.net – Interactive resources on music theory.
  5. www.teachmusic.online – Innovative methods in music education.

Abdurayimov Faxriddin Muxammadali ogli was born on October 15, 2002, in Izboskan districtAndijan region, Uzbekistan.

Poetry from Austin Chung

Dissipate

An orange glow emanates

from the entrance of a cave

wavering heat reaches

its threatening tendrils out 

in hunger, disappearing

The wall of a fallen castle

broken shell of the past

dust settles around the 

decaying wooden floor, the rough

concrete bumps tickle my fingertips

A small well with a bottomless pit

only darkness obstructs what lies within

once in a while, the wisps

will soar into the sky

then dissipate.

Decompose

Sitting alone at my desk

my head resting on my arms

I close my eyes and isolate

the hum of air conditioning

The buzz transforms into cymbals of waves

crashing onto the grainy sand ashore

The sun radiates with exhausting heat

in the freezing water, my feet submerged

keeps my subconscious at bay

I take a moment to behold the scene

one I will never truly see

the bells signal class, and the seagulls

caw their goodbyes as my vision blurs

back to the disappointing scene I started from.

Shedding Non-existent Tears

Supposedly, an everyday morning

the same repetitive routine

Wake up, then take a cup

pour a glass of milk for the morning

It was no special action

just my hand sped too far

but once it started, it never stopped falling

till the glass lay flat on the table

the ringing bell constricted my heart

cause no matter what, I could only have

one cup of milk for every morning

nothing less, and nothing more

I look upon the white liquid

finding crevices on the wooden floor

A forgiving voice whispers in my head

it was bound to happen someday

but the more I stared at the mess I made

the greater wider the hole in my stomach became

so with a disappointed sigh, I wiped the mess

and left with just an empty stomach

Austin Chung is a diligent high school student thriving in the bustling city of Seoul, South Korea. Passionate about his education and driven by curiosity, he is meticulously crafting his portfolio, eagerly seeking opportunities to showcase his talents and achievements. With a keen eye for detail and a hunger for knowledge, Austin is poised to make a significant impact in his academic journey and beyond.