Music is an art form consisting of organized sound based on rhythm, melody and harmony that can be played or sung to express emotion or achieve beauty. Music is a powerful tool that can energize the body, soothe the mind, and even help with physical pain. It is used by people of all ages and cultures to change their moods, emotions and thoughts.
Whether you like fast-paced rock or soothing classical, most of us have experienced the power of music to lift our spirits and affect our behavior. This is no surprise, as it has been shown that music can improve blood flow in the same way as statins, lower stress hormones and even ease pain during surgery or illness.
The word’music’ derives from the Latin musicum and Old English musike. It is thought to have originally been a generic term referring to all types of musical sounds. It was later shortened to refer specifically to instrumental music or song with lyrics. Music is an important part of many religions and cultural traditions.
For the ancient Greeks, music was seen as an expression of the divine. They believed that there was a’musical dimension’ that could not be captured by language and that the sounds of music were the reflections of celestial movements and order. This view was echoed by St. Augustine (354-430 ce), who was both attracted to music and fearful of its sensuous element; and by St. Thomas Aquinas, who held that music reflected celestial movement and order.
Music has been used throughout history as a tool for energising and relaxing the body, changing the mind, enhancing emotions and improving performance. For example, the use of different musical selections can influence retail behaviour such as satisfaction with a dining experience and purchases made (North & Hargreaves, 1996). It has also been used in more menacing ways to wear down suspects during standoffs or to torture terrorists.
The role of music has become increasingly recognised as a crucial element in the development of children, with parents and schools using it to enhance learning, boost moods, encourage healthy habits and strengthen family bonds. Today, it is not uncommon for children to have their own playlists and to choose their friends based on their music taste.
The effect of music on children and adults is complex, as it is multifaceted and depends on the individual. In general, music can increase social interaction, decrease depression and anxiety, promote relaxation, reduce the heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol levels, as well as promoting physical coordination and motor skills. It can have a positive or negative impact on memory, evoke emotional responses such as joy or sadness and help to develop self-expression. The benefits of music can also be heightened by introducing it in a structured way, such as in music therapy. This can include group music-making or singing, which is often used to support the social and emotional needs of young children. It can help them build self-esteem, confidence, and social and problem-solving abilities.