The Magic of Music
Thomas Jefferson paused to play his violin while writing the Declaration of Independence; music helped him get the words from his brain onto the paper. And Albert Einstein improvised on his instrument while working through complicated equations.
Music affects the amplitude and frequency of brain waves, as measured by an electro-encephalogram. Music also benefits breathing rate, blood pressure and pulse, enhancing the ability to learn.
The key ingredient is order: repetition of rhythm patterns and pitch. Mozart’s music, with 60 beats per minute, activates the left and right brain simultaneously, which promotes the processing of information. Example: an autistic boy who learned how to tie his shoe when the task was put to a song. The rhythm helped organize his physical movements.
A technique called melodic intonation therapy uses music to coax healthy portions of a brain to take over for damaged portions. This can help stroke patients regain their ability to speak. And, because of how we associate music with memories, this technique can be helpful for Alzheimer’s patients.
Tests have shown that music (including The Blue Danube) aids hens in laying more eggs and cows in producing more milk. And researchers have found that wheat grows faster when exposed to special ultrasonic and musical sounds.
Music actually penetrates our bodies and affects us physically, emotionally and spiritually. Sound waves enter the ear canal and literally move the ear drum. So it’s entirely accurate to say that a piece of music “moved me” or “touched me.”
