Voices that teach and enchant: music as a hug and affection on Teachers' Day at Unesc

Amid the fast-paced flow of university corridors, where classes, studies, and meals often dictate the rhythm, the Unesc campus received a necessary and affectionate pause on the evening of Thursday (October 15), Teacher's Day. Among guitar chords and vocal harmonies, art made its way to remind everyone of the human value of teaching.

Coordinated by the Unesc Art and Culture Department, a special program unfolded in two moments: on the stage of Cultural Thursdays and at the Center for Integration and Spirituality, transforming the campus into a stage for tributes, gratitude, sensitivity, and reconnections with the essence of teaching.

The initiative stemmed from a sincere desire to honor those who dedicate their lives to educating others. For the department coordinator, Amalhene Baesso Reddig, known as Lenita, celebrating the date through art reaffirms the deeper meaning of the academic journey.

"It is a satisfaction to celebrate, on this day, this profession that is so connected to our work on campus, in teacher education, and as educators. I am proud to have been involved for so many years in this noble and worthy cause. It is a profession that, at times, can be exhausting, but it is of high relevance and completely necessary. It is important to remember that the entire teaching class needs support, ongoing training, and respect. And music brings joy to each individual and to all," expressed Lenita.

Lenita also recalls the consistency of this cultural commitment on campus. For 13 years, the Cultural Thursdays project has played a role in keeping art alive in the routine of the academic community, ensuring that not a single week goes by without color, poetry, and sound in university life.

The stage as a meeting point and lightness

The tributes began on the traditional stage of Cultural Thursdays, with a special performance by the "Singing Professors of Unesc" group. In 40 minutes, the educators temporarily set aside their books and classrooms to share with students another of their passions: music in their leisure time.

For Professor José Carlos Virtuoso, known as Zeca Virtuoso, the performance goes far beyond mere entertainment. It is an affirmation of the very nature of the university space.

"It is an important manifestation because we are in academia. This is not just a space for science, but also for culture, exchanges of experiences, and talents. Professors have gathered every year to have fun, and today was yet another night of enjoyment and happiness because music touches our hearts, nourishes our dreams, and restores our energy. Our lives are always very busy with work, but music is an extra breath, a joy we share with the students. It is another contemplation of life when we sing," reflected Zeca.

The synergy between generations was evident in the choice of repertoire. Professor José Carlos Ghedin, who has participated in the performances for years, recalled his musical influences and the joy of exchanging experiences with younger students.

"It is a satisfaction. Today is our day, Teacher's Day, and being able to gather with this group that loves music is wonderful. The cultural aspect of the University is quite intense, and that makes us feel good. This reminds me of the time I was studying Medicine in Pelotas when we enjoyed the Almôndegas group. This interaction with the students is great, and besides that, the musicians play very well,” commented Ghedin.

A serenade to soothe the soul

During the break between evening classes, the tone of the celebration took on touches of warmth and peace inside the Center for Integration and Spirituality, at the Student Square. There, the members of the Unesc Choir presented the project "Serenade (En) Canto," surprising teachers and attendees with delicate interpretations.

For the professor and conductor of the Choir, Dyane Rosa, the emotion of the night exceeded all expectations. "It was unexpected because I didn't imagine what they would do. I was very surprised and happy for the recognition of my work. The message one of the choir members brought was also wonderful: it expressed exactly what we feel for the teachers and how important this profession is for our society," highlighted Dyane.

The emotion took over those watching. Gislene Camargo, a professor in the Pedagogy program, did not hide her tears upon receiving the affection prepared by the choir.

"Wow, how beautiful! I think this is the tribute we want. We don't want anything more: we want music, culture, and this affection. It is very good to know that they prepared these songs with so much love and invited us here. Besides everything, they gifted us with such a beautiful poem that came from the heart. I am super emotional, I cried. And now I have to go to class because the teacher has to be in the classroom," joked the professor.

The night also held mixed feelings for those who live both sides of the classroom. Professor and choir member Yasmine de Moura da Cunha shared the unique experience of taking the stage as a singer on the day dedicated to her profession.

"As a singer, I confess it was my first time. I was nervous with the audience. As a teacher, I feel very honored for all these years here at Unesc. I have learned more from my students than I have taught, for sure," stated Yasmine.

The bond between generations

Among all the tributes and applause, the most sensitive moment of the night occurred when literature and family affection intertwined. With her maternal grandmother present, Sol Minatti Andrade, a third-year student in the English Language program and a member of the choir, took the floor to read a tribute to her late mother, Leila Minatti Andrade, a former professor at Unesc and a former member of the Unesc Choir.

With a choked voice, but firm from the love she carried in her heart, Sol read words of her own authorship that silenced the space and deeply touched the heart of every educator present:

"Mom,
If today I chose to be a teacher, it’s because I had the best teacher in life at home: you.
It was watching you patiently teach me to take my first steps, to read my first words, to have courage when I was afraid, that I understood what it truly means to teach. It’s not just about books or blackboards; it’s about love, it’s about believing in others when they don’t believe in themselves.

You inspired me when I was little and continue to inspire me today. In your strength, in your dedication, in the way you never gave up on me.
And I know that you love to sing. That in 2009, you participated in the Unesc Choir and showed that music was also a way to teach and evoke emotions. I have always loved seeing that sparkle in you.

If I can touch the lives of my students with half the affection you touched mine, I will have fulfilled my mission.
Thank you for being my first example, my first classroom, and my inspiration forever.
I love you, mom. And thank you for teaching me how to teach."