SoundCloud has become a cornerstone in the world of music sharing and discovery, especially for students and educators who are looking for an accessible and diverse platform. Let’s dive into what makes SoundCloud an excellent tool for students, particularly for those with an inclination towards music and audio content.
1. A Treasure Trove of Music Discovery
SoundCloud is renowned for its vast collection – boasting over 300 million tracks from more than 30 million artists across 193 countries. This makes it an unparalleled resource for students to explore a wide range of music, from mainstream to indie and everything in between. It’s a fantastic way for students to broaden their musical horizons and discover genres and artists they might not encounter on more mainstream platforms.
2. Personalized Music Experience
What I particularly appreciate about SoundCloud is its ability to tailor music recommendations. The platform’s curated mixes and playlists are based on users’ listening habits, providing a unique and personalized experience. For students, this could mean discovering music that resonates with their study habits or finding the perfect background tracks to fuel their creativity.
3. Exclusive Tracks and Content
SoundCloud stands out for its exclusive content. Students can access tracks and mixes unavailable on other platforms, offering a sense of exclusivity and discovery. This feature is particularly appealing for those who want to stay ahead in the music scene or explore niche genres.
Related: 15 Excellent Music Resources for Teachers
4. Fostering a Music Community
The platform is not just about listening to music; it’s about building a community. Students can share tracks, connect with artists, and engage with fans globally. This aspect can be incredibly beneficial for those interested in music production or aspiring to build a career in the music industry. It’s a space where students can both find inspiration and be an inspiration.
5. Showcasing Creativity
For students who are budding artists or interested in music production, SoundCloud provides an invaluable platform to upload and share their own tracks. This exposure to a global audience can be a game changer, offering real-world feedback and the opportunity to build a fanbase.
6. Supporting Independent Artists
SoundCloud’s fan-powered streaming model is a noteworthy aspect. It enables listeners to directly support their favorite independent artists. This aspect of SoundCloud can teach students about the value of artistic work and the importance of supporting independent creators.
7. SoundCloud Go+ Student
SoundCloud Go+ Student offers a fantastic opportunity for students to access premium features at a significantly reduced cost – 50% off the regular Go+ subscription rate. This deal is specifically tailored for students, ensuring that those on a budget can still enjoy the full range of features that SoundCloud Go+ offers. To start the subscription process, students need to visit SoundCloud directly, as this offer isn’t available through the Apple or Google Play stores.
It’s recommended to sign up using a computer or mobile browser. During the sign-up process, SoundCloud partners with SheerID for verification purposes. This step is crucial as it confirms your status as a student. Remember, the email address associated with your SoundCloud account is used for the application, so it’s important to ensure that you’re signed into the correct account and have access to that email.
If the email verified is different from the one linked to your SoundCloud account, the discount won’t be applied, requiring you to contact their support team. Another key point to note is that these student subscriptions are valid for 12 months and can be renewed for up to four consecutive terms.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, SoundCloud is more than just a music streaming platform; it’s a dynamic space for music discovery, community building, and creative expression. It’s particularly beneficial for students who are passionate about music, whether as listeners, creators, or aspiring professionals in the music industry. It’s a platform that offers both entertainment and educational value, making it a worthy tool in the realm of educational technology.