Why listen to classical music?

Indeed, why? I have shown that we are surrounded by classical music in its varied forms from diverse sources. However, our response to much of this music is passive - it’s there, we may or may not be aware of it or pay attention to it. Should we become more active in pursuing an active response to classical music in our lives? Both ancient tradition and modern science agree: “Yes!”

Let me offer some cautionary words first. While it is true that these benefits can be derived from classical music, some other forms of music may offer some of these, too. Not all classical music selections may offer these benefits. For instance, Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring caused a riot at its premiere; it was so “new” and controversial that the audience rose up against this music. (This has happened to other pieces of classical music, too, especially some that have “thrown away the mold” to install some new concept in its place.)

This being said, if you Google the search term “benefits of classical music,” you will find a large number of sites that, in general, share the same information from various resources.
There does seem to be some consensus on the subject.

Classical music is a major part of cultural history, at least in the Western world. (It is interesting to note that the past 30 - 40 years have produced many talented classical musicians from the Asian world - Japan, Korea, China, for example. The Suzuki method of teaching to play an instrument began in Japan, where violinist Shinichi Suzuki developed the concept of making children better people though music.)

It would be difficult to understand music today without some knowledge of its development and place in past culture. The whole scope of developing the melodic line that is so pleasing to Western ears, then the harmonies that underlie the melody, as well as ways to annotate it (write it down on paper) and bring about the instruments through which to perform the music is tied to classical music. Some understanding of this history can be helpful to a better appreciation of the music that we listen to today, even if it isn’t classical.

Music has been called the “universal language.” Although people of different cultures, languages and ethos may not be able to communicate with one another, through classical music one might observe simultaneous smiles or trickling tears as diverse audiences hear it performed. Classical music (indeed, music in general) promotes the social contract of loving one’s neighbor and doing good to them when possible.

Classical music has an enduring quality, not passing fancy as so much popular music. Classical music has lasted and been performed repeatedly over the centuries because of its universal and long-lasting appeal. Not all classical music. however, is so enduring; some is of such quality that it has been shelved. However, in today’s world of knowing, even the most obscure works of the most obscure composers are constantly the quest of musicologists’ searches, and the income for performing forces as well as recording companies.

Classical music offers an extremely wide range of emotional impact - sad, happy, manic, depression, anger, love, fright, delight. You may experience any of these as you listen to any particular piece of classical music. After some time and you become more familiar with classical music, you can easily choose to listen to music that matches or can change your current mood. This music inculcates a broader range of sensitivity than other forms of music. Somewhat tangentially, classical music has a very wide scope of feelings and their expressions. Sometimes people may think that listening to classical music alone is very narrow. However, for a number of reasons - forms, dynamics, historic styles, instrumentation and size of performing groups - this music is broader and more encompassing than other styles of music. Begin to listen attentively and see if this music doesn’t stretch your mind as well as your emotional palette.

There are social consequences that may be derived from classical music. Tests in both London and in Florida have shown that problem areas where classical music is played become less problematic as rates of hostility and crime went down. Classical music can form a bond between individuals, either singly or as part of a group. There are music lovers who come together around a single composer, a single musical era and even a single piece of music. Sharing of musical knowledge and favorites builds camaraderie.

Medical science has shown repeatedly that classical music has much to commend it as a part of music therapy. The tempo (speed) of a composition can speed up or slow down a heart’s rate of beating, as well as respiration. Classical music seems to reduce production of the hormone cortisol, which is a major component in stress, thus relieving stress. Both chronic pain and post-operative pain have been significantly reduced through listening to classical music. It is thought that the music offers a patient something other than pain to focus on, and gives a measure of control over unmitigated focus on pain. Along with production of anti-cortisol hormones, classical music has been shown to boost the production of hormones that increase one’s immunity. Listening to classical music also gives a “lift” that enables greater endurance. Perhaps this is why so many walkers, joggers and runners have their portable music systems plugged into their ears as they exercise.

What are the effects of classical music on the brain? One theory suggests that certain musical selections have the ability to increase concentration and focus, enabling better learning functions and later recall. A popular approach to this is called the “Mozart Effect,” wherein studies have shown that certain kinds of cerebral activities are enhanced as the music of Mozart accompanies the study and followup activities mental grasp of spatial concepts. While the Mozart Effect is not accepted unanimously, most professionals accept the basic tenets described above. It is possible that other types of music can produce a similar effect, but doubtful that just any other kind of music can do so. Music by Mozart (and others) apparently opens neural pathways to enable quicker and easier learning and the ability to remember what was learned.

When I worked as a driving instructor, I normally tuned the car radio to a classical music station. Many of my students were teens, and a large number of them commented about how that seemed to calm their nerves to make learning easier. In fact, many of these students spoke of teachers at school who played recordings of classical music in class to enhance the learning environment.

Since classical music can be relaxing, slower-paced tuneful music can aid one’s sleep patterns. One can sleep naturally, and awaken without the side effects of  sleep medications.

Finally, there is even a little-known financial component to classical music. Many farmers have learned that cows give more milk, chickens, more eggs, etc., whenever classical music is piped into their living quarters. Also, beware of shopping in a store that plays classical music over its PA system. Studies have shown that people tend to spend more money in such an environment.

There you have it - a number of good reasons to encourage listening to some classical music. When you are tired, stressed, have to study, need a little extra “oomph,” or any other conditions described above, try some classical music. Let it have its best effects on you, too.