Market Spirit Network

Music, like language, changes through the centuries. But music is life. A Bach invention, a Brahms symphony, and a Beatles song are different forms in different genres, and at first they may sound as if they have nothing in common. But they all use the same musical “language” and follow basically the same rules. Music can alleviate pain caused by exercise, making working out more pleasurable. “Music is integral to exercise,” explains the head of London’s Gymbox chain, Richard Hilton. “We even have live DJs. We’ve never measured the effect scientifically, but it definitely creates an uplifting mood that people love. The anticipation at the sound of the music in movies could scare an audience out of its seat. Simply adding a track of background music can greatly improve a video. Some of the most suspenseful movies of all time are known by their music tracks (Jaws and Psycho, for instance). Music is magical. Whether it is fast or slow, loud or soft, haunting or uplifting, music makes our world a richer place. Some people dance to it, some write, play or sing it, and others just listen. Music’s power is that it touches everyone in different ways. Teresa Lesiuk, in a five week study on software developers at the University of Windsor CA, observed that “positive affect and quality-of-work were lowest with no music, while time-on-task was longest when music was removed.” Furthermore, “positive mood change and enhanced perception of design” were recorded with the addition of music.

For many people, a doctor or dentist’s waiting-room can be an anxious and uncomfortable experience often compounded by tedium. Some postpone the appointment for as long as possible to avoid the discomfort.

Today, individuals are being confronted by a situation where one is forced to listen to music whether by choice or without. Music is played in nearly all department stores and super markets. Even whilst walking in the streets, we find cars blaring with music. Whether it’s in the car, at home, or in a concert hall, listening with your children and then talking about music is a great way to engage both of you in the classical experience. The first element at play is music’s ability to establish an optimal state of mental absorption that psychologists call “flow”, which is why Paula Radcliffe (and other top runners) use music to prepare for intense training sessions. After you hear a piece, try to hum one or more of the themes, or pick out the instruments you hear. You’ll be surprised how fast your children will build a repertoire of pieces you both know and like when you listen together.