«If music is the feed of love, go on playing».
William Shakespeare, 1564-1616, English playwright
As the famous English writer wisely said 400 years ago, music must play an integral part in our life since its importance extends from infancy to deep adulthood. Research has shown that music has beneficial effects on both the mother and the fetus. Music helps the mother manage stress positively by giving her a sense of joy. On the other hand, it contributes positively to the cognitive and mental development of the fetus.
Research
Those who research the human brain know that music has a unique bond with our emotions, so it works as a very effective tool for managing those emotions – for example in reducing stress. When we listen to music the blood pressure drops, the pulses slow down and the stress hormone levels decrease. According to psychologists, these benefits are universal, regardless of the type of music that every person prefers. Of course, different genres of music may suit different moods – classical music is often suggested as the kind that offers serenity.
Entertainment
Love, hatred, life, death, joy, sadness, well-being, melancholy and many other emotions are opposing concepts which, through music take the form that anyone can understand and feel. Depending on the mood he/she has or mood he/she wants to have, he/she chooses the type of music he/she wants to hear.
Music has always been considered as a way of entertainment. Famous scientists have stated that without music in their life, they would not be able to make the discoveries.
Therapeutic function
Music is especially useful for those who have suffered damage to the left side of the brain. It also boosts the release of dopamine, a hormone that boosts brain function. Music therapy is now also used as a treatment for dementia / Alzheimer’s in older people.
«If I weren’t a scientist, I would be a musician. Life is unthinkable to me if I don’t play music. Music is the greatest joy of my life».
Albert Einstein
