The Benefits of Classical Music
Gabriella Sandoval, Events Manager and Liaison
Music takes art in many various forms and genres, with one of these genres often thought of to be jazz music’s sibling, which is classical music. Classical music is a genre that offers many benefits not only to the ears, but throughout the rest of the body as well.
Among the many ways that are used to improve mental health, listening to and performing classical music is used to help alleviate stress, enhance moods, lower blood pressure, provide cognitive enhancement, and improve sleep. The soothing melodic rhythms activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which controls our body’s ability to relax. The vagus nerve, which is the main nerve of the parasympathetic nervous system, is located near the eardrum, and responds to musical vibrations by triggering the body into a state of relaxation.
Additionally, classical music has proven to significantly reduce cortisol levels, the hormone that is associated with stress and blood pressure. Classical music acts as a calming agent on the mind and body due to the gentle and rhythmic nature of the genre. This encourages relaxation, and acts as a natural antidote promoting a sense of calm and serenity. The body has the ability to respond to these sounds by dilating blood vessels and improving blood flow. This can in turn, support heart health. Who knew music can do more than provide pleasure to our ears?!
In 1993, researchers coined a term called the "Mozart Effect" which refers to the cognitive and emotional benefits connected to listening to Mozart's compositions. At first, it was widely believed that listening to Mozart could temporarily boost general intelligence or IQ. This was later found to be an exaggeration. However, studies have shown that listening to Mozart can show improvement in spatial-reasoning abilities. This is because the intricate structures and patterns in Mozart's music stimulate brain activity, promoting neural connections and enhancing cognitive performance.
Music is often a tool that many people turn to in order to find comfort. Listening to upbeat symphonies can help to elevate mood and evoke feelings of happiness. On the other hand, melancholic pieces can help us process our own emotions, providing an outlet for emotional release. Classical music is one of many genres that can distract the mind from negative thoughts and rumination, which helps to soothe anxiety and feelings of distress.
From iconic music used in the infamous Swan Lake ballet, to Beethoven's magnificent pieces, classical music is a genre full of excitement and beauty. Originating in Europe during the medieval and renaissance periods, classical music is a genre that has continuously developed over many centuries. Classical music still holds its unique value through modern classical music performances, as well as ballets and broadway shows.
Whether you listen to classical music for fun, or you’re wanting to take advantage of the many benefits it offers the body, classical music is truly a genre full of enjoyment internally and externally.