When producing lecture videos (online courses, internal training videos, recorded workshops, etc.), a common question arises:

Should I use background music in lecture videos?

It sounds simple, but in reality this decision directly affects:

• The learner’s ability to concentrate
• The long-term learning experience
• The perceived professionalism of the course

This article provides a neutral analysis, based on both educational principles and learner experience, to help you decide when you should – and should not – use background music, and how to use it properly if needed.

Why Do People Want to Add Background Music?

Background music is often added with the following expectations:

• To make the video feel less dry or less like “just reading slides”
• To create a professional feel, similar to YouTube or international courses
• To fill awkward silence
• To create a positive emotional atmosphere (light, friendly, approachable)

👉 These reasons are not wrong.

The issue lies in the context and the way music is used.

When You SHOULD Use Background Music

Background music is not inherently bad — it simply needs to be used appropriately.

It can be suitable in the following cases:

1. Course Intro / Outro Videos

• Creates a sense of beginning and closure
• Gives the course its own “identity”
• Usually lasts only 5–15 seconds

2. Course Introduction Videos

• Landing page videos
• Instructor introduction videos
• Orientation or learning roadmap videos

Here, music helps create emotion, not support knowledge delivery.

3. Transition or Recap Videos

• Summaries of previous lessons
• Transitions between modules
• Videos with minimal instructional explanation

When You Should NOT Use Background Music

In the following cases, background music often causes more harm than benefit:

1. Core Teaching Videos

• Explaining concepts
• Demonstrating procedures
• Delivering long-form instruction

Learners need to:

• Hear clearly
• Concentrate
• Avoid distractions

2. Videos Containing a Lot of New Information

When learners must:

• Listen
• Read
• Think

→ Background music increases cognitive load.

3. When Voice Audio Quality Is Not Strong

If:

• The microphone isn’t clear
• There’s background noise
• Volume levels are inconsistent

→ Music will make the situation worse, not better.

5 Important Principles for Using Background Music

Music should always play a supporting role, never compete with the lesson.

1. Limit It to Intro/Outro

Intro and outro moments require less cognitive focus, so music can help create rhythm and emotional tone.

Once the main lesson begins, it’s best to turn the music off completely.

2. Keep the Volume Extremely Low (≈ 5–10% of Voice Level)

Video editors often monitor through speakers, but learners frequently use headphones.

Music should be barely noticeable — felt, not consciously heard.

3. Avoid Vocals and Strong Beats

Music with lyrics or strong rhythms can:

• Compete with the instructor’s voice
• Distract learners

Choose ambient, soft piano, or simple pad-style tracks.

4. Avoid Short Loops

Short repeating loops quickly become irritating — especially when learners watch multiple videos in a row.

If using music, choose a longer track or keep it very brief.

5. Prioritize Learner Control

Not everyone enjoys background music.

Design the experience so that:

• Volume can be easily adjusted
• Music does not interfere if learners increase or decrease volume

👉 Core principle:

Background music should support the learning experience —

not compete for attention.

Conclusion

The question isn’t simply “yes or no” to background music.

It’s:

Use it at the right time — for the right purpose — in the right educational context.

Hopefully, this article helps you make a clear and thoughtful decision, rather than adding music just to make your course “feel more professional.”

If you decide to use background music for your lecture videos, choosing music sources that are copyright-safe and appropriate for educational contexts is extremely important.

You can refer to the following article:

👉 Free Background Music Sources for Lecture Videos

This article compiles platforms that offer free (including royalty-free) music, along with guidance on how to choose the right music for different types of educational videos.