Teachers’ Favourite Tunes

Step into the harmonious world of our esteemed faculty members as we delve into their diverse musical tastes. From the soothing melodies of classical compositions to the pulsating rhythms of modern beats, our teachers’ favorite tunes paint a vibrant sonic tapestry that reflects their unique personalities and passions.

Don’t be surprised to find a hidden gem from a distant land, as our multicultural faculty brings forth melodies from around the globe, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of world music.

So whether you’re seeking inspiration, relaxation, or simply a new groove to move to, look no further than the diverse musical tastes of our beloved teachers. Let their favorite tunes guide you on a melodic journey that transcends boundaries and fosters a deeper appreciation for the universal language of music. 🎵🌟If students would like to contribute with their song choices, we welcome wholeheartedly your diverse musical tastes to share with SFL. Please send to sflacts@gmail.com

Our first teacher is Jane Denktasli with her 5 choices.

Get Back (Beatles) – When I was 10 I went on a sailing trip with my cousins in Malta where I grew up. It was my first overnight stay on the boat, so it was a big deal for me. When we arrived at our mooring for the night, we jumped overboard into the sea for a swim. The song was blasting out over the water from a jukebox in a bar on the beach. I felt so free and grown up.

Forever Autumn (Justin Hayward’s version on War of the Worlds album) – My boyfriend played this album over and over. It reminds me of good times even though it’s a sad song.

September (Earth Wind and Fire) – Played this for months in the winter of ’78 when I was in a flat share in London for my first job.

Let the Sunshine in (Hair album) – No one can dislike this song, and yeah it holds memories as well. I got in to the West End production in 1973 underage (entry was restricted due the nude scenes) because my cousin knew one of the stage managers. It was just before the run was caught short by the roof of the theatre collapsing.

Sultans of Swing (Dire Straits) – This was our music when I first met my husband, we often played it in the car on long road trips to Bodrum especially.

Click on image to listen to song.

Tim Evans shares his top 5 and the reasons why they are so memorable.

ELO – Mr Blue Sky. Not the best song by E.L.O. but my first experience of the band, heard on a small transistor radio, this song motivated me to get a paper round at the age of 11 and spend my first week’s earnings on the 7 inch of the same, repeated listening and my delight in the use of strings by Mr. Lynn and co. led me to the Beatles, for which I shall be forever grateful.

The Beatles – Abbey Road Medley. Perhaps a bit of a cheat and if not allowed would be replaced by one of George’s contributions to the White Album (The Beatles); however, the medley avoids some of Paul’s overly saccharine tendencies and seems to keep John on track, preventing him diving into one of his drug induced holes and wallowing, in addition to allowing both Ringo and George to shine with rare solo spells on the End and showing George Martin’s value as a producer.

David Bowie – Rock & Roll Suicide. Bowie is one of those that have travelled with me throughout my life and is a man who has supported all disaffected and alienated people-this is one of my personal favourites of his despite him suggesting that we drop acid together.

David Byrne – Somebody. Another who has stuck with me throughout my life – an explosion of brass over a samba beat, what’s not to like?

Elton John – Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding. A combination of something Elton composed for himself when thinking about the sort of music he would like played at his funeral and a track he composed over breakfast with a vodka and orange, practiced with the band over the next couple of hours and had recorded by lunchtime – more evidence of the deal that Elton must have made with the devil before recording anything during the first half of the seventies.

Click on image to listen to song.

Lyndon Merrett shares his top 5 next, or is it 6? Short but sweet comments!

Click on image link to song.

Lyndon Merrett

1) Smokey – Living Next Door to Alice (I know Alice)

2) Gerry Rafferty – Baker Street (Could never play the Sax’ as a guitar that good)

3) The Eagles – Hotel California (A Classic then, A Classic now)

4) Queen – Bohemian Rhapsody (Best band I ever saw)

5) REO Speedwagon – Keep on Loving You (You gotta have stayin’ power)

and as a bonus

6) Cozy Powell – Dance with the Devil (A one off!)

Thanks to the teachers for their contributions. I hope you found one in here that you would listen to again and again. Stand by for the next installment.

If you would like to send in your choices, please send them to sflacts@gmail.com