Emotional Music

Paper Summary:

The writer looks at the power of music to evoke emotional reactions from those listening, whether actively or passively. The paper discusses the ways music can lift spirits and release stress, allowing people to seek comfort in times of distress. The paper also cites cases in which music has been shown to play an important part in improving the performance of employees by easing their stress and stimulating their activity.

From the Paper:

"By modulating the quality of the music, such as its tempo, one can elicit the desired emotion. Deborah Salmon, a music therapist working with terminally ill patients, finds that music has a vast potential in bringing forth a great depth of emotions, such as hope, faith and sadness, from her patients (Fleming 103). Music with a low tempo and without changes in dynamic lowers blood pressure and heart rates in cardiac patients (Fleming 104). In addition, music that is personally meaningful to the listeners has a more powerful effect on them (Fleming 104). According to Don Campbell, the author of The Mozart Effect, classical music by romantic composers such as Ravel and Chopin and chants, such as Gregorian or Eastern chants, can help produce relaxation (Fleming 105). Rock and country music can stimulate emotions and movements, thus releasing tension and pain. The lively beats of Salsa and Latin music can increase the flow of energy and encourage the body to move. Techno, with its stimulating, pulsating beats and unique rhythms, helps young adults overcome depression (Fleming 105)."

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