Music and Mental health

 World Mental Health Day was recently celebrated on October 10th. On a similar note, I want to discuss about the mental health benefits of listening to particular types of music.

Firstly, according to studies, when music is played, blood flows more freely. It also lowers blood pressure, lowers cortisol (the stress hormone), and raises serotonin and endorphin levels in the blood.

On a “bad day” listening to music will elevate your mood. This is because the hormone dopamine is produced in the brain in response to music. An increase in dopamine production can help alleviate anxiety and despair. The amygdala, the region of the brain involved in mood and emotions, processes music directly.

In a fast-paced world, we have numerous activities to do. We often find ourselves caught up in a heap of assignments that have to be finished by the end of the day, and you might have not even started a few tasks. This pressure built on us by society, jobs, and other tensions increases our stress. Music is a free, and fun medicine to reduce your stress. Music has been shown to relieve tension by stimulating biological stress reducers, according to research.

People who are depressed may benefit from music therapy. Patients had less depressive symptoms when music therapy was utilised in conjunction with established treatment approaches than when traditional treatment was used alone. When music therapy was included to the treatment plan for these depressed patients, they experienced a reduction in anxiety and an improvement in their ability to function. 

Music therapy, in addition to its psychological effects, may also aid with physical pain in a way that enhances general mental well-being. Not only may music therapy minimise discomfort and the quantity of sedative medication necessary during treatments, but it also has the potential to reduce anxiety and improve patient satisfaction.

Typically music between 50-80 beats per minute will stimulate creativity and increase productivity as well. “Chasing Pavements” by Adele is an example.

In conclusion, music is more than mere 5-10 minutes of a break in our stressful lives because it plays a major role throughout. Recognizing music’s benefits and availing it’s benefits will do wonders to us. 

 The tacet of Classical music

We can all agree that the tenure of Classical music has ended. It is not baffling to hear that less than 1% of the population, above the age of 15, attend a classical music concert once a month. Popularity of it has declined over the past few decades, and most members of the younger generations find it boring. There exists multiple reasons for its decline. 

A pop song is only 3 minutes. It complements the nature of adults and teens having short attention span these days. Classical music is slow and plays a long time which youngsters do not appreciate as they live in a fast moving world where they do not have the time to listen to the nuances and interpret the music. However, this reason will not apply to everyone so what are the other causes which may interfere with this event? 

We can "relate" to the musicians more in pop than classical as they are still alive. Tours, meet and greets and other social gatherings take place with these composers which makes the experience more lively and seen first-hand. Changes can still be made to the music that is made, with respect to the rhythms, tonality etc. The great backup from other entertainment industries, making people more aware of artists by movies or social media, has youth exploring pop music further. Whereas, with classical music awareness can only be spread by one's liking or through concerts which many people do not attend due to the strict regulations imposed to the audience in the hall, which makes it unattractive; it is expensive and time consuming as well. Moreover, fewer schools each day offer the option to learn an instrument due to lack of funding.

Has a catchy tune ever been "stuck in your head"? Yes, it has for all of us. That is because pop songs are repetitive not only due to the repetitive chorus; if a song is in the top 20 on billboard for a week it will be played everywhere and shared to you millions of times. Although, symphonies and concerts cannot be repeated in the same manner. There is a complex structure to classical music and generally does not tend to have a repetitive structure so is easily forgotten.

These may be the possible reasons for the moribund of classical music. Nevertheless, the question to ask is whether you want it to shine again among the other genres or for it to accept its faith? Do you believe that classical music deserves more? How can we revive it? Whether you cherish classical music or not we cannot deny the fact that classical music was our pop and that it was a revolution. Legends such as Mozart and Beethoven belong to that period: their mark was made in the history of music. The least teens can do is not to mock others listening to classical music which I have seen from my personal experience.

Peace

I lived in a bubble, 

Where darkness kissed me to sleep,

Where he wrapped me in his arms protecting me from trouble,

But it was too late because I was asleep,

And I realized the massive hand was choking me,

He said it is your fault,

O my little dear you woke up from your dream,

I knew this would be the result,

Because now you know the problems in this world are at extreme,

All you humans know is how to insult,

Black, white, women, child doesn’t matter,

You made divisions, who can’t stay and chatter,

You know it too, everyone does,

But no one is ever ready to fix the problem up,

It’s not one man’s duty; it’s everyone’s sum,

They blame a man for goodness sake, that’s the trap,

So the bubble your are trapped in gets darker,

Men are falling into a pit,

Into the darkest bubble, where a black hole exists,

But you know what to do, you can’t just play your bit, while the other just sit,

O my little dear you need to insist,

As your fellow beings bubbles get darker,

As your fellow beings are choked the way you are,

And life becomes harder,

When you all live in harmony,

Where you respect each other,

Where someone’s identity need not be questioned by testimony,

Trust is built within one another,

A place where you forgive and forget,

When compromise and commitment play a duet,

Where speaking the truth isn’t a sin,

And to when courts go back to justice that they’ve been,

You shouldn’t be feeling small in this world,

You shouldn’t be tucking your feet curled,

The darkness suffocates, but light exists,

Your dark bubble will fade away it’s color , I promise,

And when what I said happens darkness will clear it’s mist,

The oceans are crystal clear, the sky is clear blue,

Trees grows tall in a green color hue,

Animals coexist with nature,

Unity saves the day for all gods creatures,

If you all stand as one, the dark bubbles might as well not be here,

If the legend is true the white dove will land here,

Pop! A sound blasts near,

When unity speaks the doves will hear,

And rescue is on its way oh please don’t fear,

Because I am helpless and I can’t invade your space,

O don’t you worry little dear,

The little white dove is coming-they call her peace .

The Power of Music

Top 3 Inspirational songs of all time to get you through the catastrophe of  Covid-19

By: Anandi

"Music can change the world", said Beethoven, a world renown classical musician of the 1800's. Many lives are an the verge to becoming disastrous. Corona virus has made it self seen, and clear about it's existence to everyone. From the presidents of countries to daily-wage workers. It has taken away countless lives, and the virus continues to do so. Jobs are lost, people are going bankrupt, masses starving, and markets crashing. Doctors and nurses are working day and night trying to keep the patients breathing and alive; professors and scientists creating a vaccine. The world has turned into a havoc, and I believe all someone needs is motivation and inspiration to draw from that we can fight it. An extrovert child who enjoys playing out with his friend, or an employee who has lost his/her job need a ray of light to shine inside the dark tunnel. Here are top 3 songs of all time which can get you back on an upwards path. 

1. Hall of Fame--The Script--This song inspires me very much. It makes me believe that I am capable of doing anything you name if I have the burning desire, it is not a walk in the park but the goal will be achieved. Never give up on your dreams even though god throws many hurdles towards you. Fight for what you believe in. Most importantly believe in yourself and you will excel. It gives you an incentive to work your way up, and get back up from down falls. Corona virus situation is just an obstacle thrown at us, and it should not let us feel worried, because as humans we have the ability to change horrendous situations to a daisy dream, we have the power to fight.

2. Lose Yourself--Eminem--Take an opportunity while you get it, you may only get one shot; however there are costs for everything. Success may be achieved by sacrificing personal relationships, privacy, and character. There is a cost you pay for aiming high, so be sure of what you want. During this corona virus epidemic money is not the only matters, you can build your relationships with loved ones, and it is a blessing in disguise. Always grab an opportunity you get, because we never know what will happen next like the pandemic.

3. Man in the Mirror--Michael Jackson--There are masses in requirement for food, water, shelter, cardinally acceptable sanitation and hygiene. We all can make a difference, we have the ability to the change our surroundings, and the atmosphere we live in. "If you want to make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and then make a change," are lines from the song which give an overall meaning of the message articulated. If you want to alter your world, change from within you, first.  Start by changing the man in the mirror. This song by the "King of Pop", definitely makes you willing to change the appalling images of people are desperate for aid. You can contribute by donating, or any other benevolent actions.

There are also others. For example, In the End, Linkin Park; I'm Alive, Celine Dion; Fight Song, Rachel Platten; Firework, Katy Perry and many others.

Music remains a medium of communication, and may reflect emotions which you are understanding. The feelings may be arcane but it can be expressed through music, and that is exactly what these musicians have done. Music heals, strengthens, inspires you.

 

9/5/2020

Dear Diary,
My frail, slender arms gracefully lifted my fingers off the keys. My body slowly detaching away from the piano, and the music faded away into the back of my mind where it was always to be remembered. As I got off the enormous stage, I stole one last glance at large structure at the far left of the stage. It sat there alone, expecting for another performer to awake it's senses, and use it up to it's potential. I turned my back and slipped past, the press, the crowd, and people. A swell of emotions were stuck in my throat waiting to let out; I cried my heart out , a sea of emotions drowning me, it was an overwhelming experience. Music is not a career, or a hobby to me. It goes beyond words to describe, otherwise I would have never been in a situation like that before. Music is my life. For that reason, I continue to play for the crowd, my family, and most importantly myself. Nothing will drag me down--disease is just motivation to stand tall when knocked on to the ground. Lacking a sense will never be a cause of me being impotent in the industry, because music is foreign for people who do not have sight or hearing. The fact that, a person with hearing aids like me can become a professional baffles many; however, music is feelings put into a form. Connecting with your piece is the most vital part to any performance, it is while adding the finishing touches it may seem insignificant, but it is of ample importance. It is what gives the piece the character. When a person can feel emotions coursing through their body, as they converge into one, there are no barriers in making music, it all depends on dedication you have towards your single perfect piece, which you are composing. For the many who ask--countless in fact--how do I articulate strong expressions into my piece without the ability to hear. The pressure I apply, the notes which I locate on the piano with my instincts is the core to my pieces. I cannot even listen to my own music, but I can fathom how it would sound.
For some reason, however hard I try there is a dark force drawing out my life, swallowing me up, which does not accede to me moving forward in life. Today was the last time I played on stage. I wanted continue to embark on my musical journey, but it is not an affable path. As I grew up the many adages which referred to talent giving an upper hand, made me aloof from time to time. I used to imagine myself on a grand stage, and a grand piano, and my life to be grand. I was an amenable child. I am immensely glad that my dreams are fulfilled; however disappointed by great measures as it is slipping under my fingers. It may seem as an arcane feeling, but everyone will strike at one point or another during their life--an appalling nightmare. It is a toxic game where the industry's caustic billionaires act callous, but are cunning foxes inside trying to suppress subordinates. That is what happened to me as well today. My audacious manager not longer employed me balking my musical journey ahead. He claimed that I would have stunted growth in my career. After all, I was deaf, and I am not even close to Beethoven. I was abashed.
A mix of emotions flooded my mind once again. His words were thorns cutting through my flesh. Music is my life, but it did not matter to him. All he cared about was money, money money. I could not fetch money, so just like the money he spent unnecessarily for his dirty pleasures I went down the drain as well. That is what I think. The world thinks music and deaf are antonyms, but the deaf know that we can hear to. Music to the deaf is a feeling; it is warmth. I decided today, that I will fight for what I believe in. Till yesterday my music was abstract, wayward. It sounded great, but did not have a purpose. From now on it is for my voice to be heard; it is my right.

Anandi

  

Music industry in havoc due to Corona virus

Artists struggle to breath as corona virus gives them a hard time 

By: Anandi 

The pandemic has left stock markets crashing, businesses failing, and economies collapsing. The music industry has also succumbed into harsh reality brought by corona virus, and the world can hear it loud and clear. As the pandemic spreads the fight gets tougher as major music festivals have been cancelled, Coachella, Lollapalooza, and Ultra Music Festival to name a few. The number of international shows have also hit a low key. It is impacting self-earned to big shot musicians shows being cancelled. 

All the disturbance around had forced musicians to look for other alternatives like streaming online using apps. However, individual musicians hardly earn anything as there is low royalty rate. Even live musicians who perform gigs get negatively affected, as it takes time to adjust for them.  Although, streaming is an option it is way too risky for individual, or live musicians to try the new platform as it costs for them to attract viewers, which is a tremendous challenge many face. It may be a very critical issue for street musicians who do not even have proper shelter to live under. Bars are under pressure as they are trying to pay their employees and pay for show cancellations. This may affect their families, income and they may switch to other jobs for living. There is a different thrill to music when it is performed live, but unfortunately cannot be taken place due to circumstances, and the music industry will be bleak temporarily. These very musicians have the right to express themselves and their struggles to the government, so that they can do something about the collapsing industry. It is the government's responsibility to ensure everyone has basic necessities, and the state has not failed them. They need to take steps to bring the music industry back to how it started after a cure has been made for the corona virus. However, this may be a great opportunity for endless possibilities, as technology is hear to save the day for many others who can afford.

 However there is always a silver lining for every dark cloud. This is precious time artists should not waste.Time never comes back when you need it, and I guess artists can channel their energy into pouring out their emotions about the crisis or in general. They can get more creative. This will enable them to produce better quality music, which later will be a boon once it is streamed on the internet.  

Should Music Theory be mandatory while learning music?

For whom just started learning music, know that learning it is stressed by instructors. Especially, pupils who are passionate, or who desire to continue with their further studies in music. However, countless students are not interested in it, and prefer practicals over it.They are under the impression that music theory is boring. I believe that theory is an integral part of learning music, and should be taken seriously, due to various reasons that help music aspirants generally and during exams as well.

Firstly, for those who are only concerned about attending music exams, music theory helps you become a better sight reader, master pieces at a faster pace, and in improvisation. With music theory students can comprehend chord progressions, structure of pieces, which can help in predicting how the next few bars will sound like. Additionally, being thorough with intervals will help recognizing them during sight reading. Adding on, the candidate can recognize larger patterns in music, rather than reading each note individually, speeding up the sight reading process. Also, playing few pieces is essential for the exam, and carries lot of weight, as per the number of marks received. The process of learning the piece becomes more effective. Evidently, students will be able to trace out scale repetitions, and this enables to easily memorize long sonatas for instance. Furthermore, it assists in improvisation of music that cohesive, and this may guide your way out of blunders during performances. Finally, learning music theory is beneficial for exam purposes as well.

Second of all,  music theory helps you become a better musician as a whole. Firstly, it is because music theory is a language that music is learnt with. When you perform, others may not realize the importance. However, it makes you more efficient in playing an instrument, as it is like knowing a map off by heart, and you driving. It makes driving more efficient. Also, it helps you to communicate with other players, and share ideas easily, as music theory is the medium of exchange. Adding on, it lets you be more expressive. Thus, leading to greater connection with the music, so you can appreciate if the composer has done anything special. To sum up, learning music theory will allow you to appreciate music more deeply. 

Thirdly, many of the people learning music, would also like to compose their own music. Music theory aids in the process of composing. Additionally it is easier to put together notes which sound good together. Moreover, it allows the composer to easily the change the style of music composed, as similar type of music may be monotonous. In the end, music theory is also necessary in composition.

However, few folk say that music theory detrimental to an individual's playing and composition, and is unnecessary. They consider it as a barrier; regulations set for playing or composing music. Furthermore, opposition informs that creativity is damaged, as musicians may stick to already existing patterns and structures, and will not step out of the boundaries to explore. Especially, since music is a free art form and logic should not be induced into it, as they comment.

Nevertheless, music theory is the basics of music. It is like the grammar rules for English. Evidently, famous modern music composer mentions, in his article "Why Teach Part-Writing", that breaking rules is meaningless if you do not know the rules in the first place. Adding on, it also allows you to dwell deep into understanding music.

In conclusion, music theory is beneficial. It helps you to become a better musician overall, as you learn the fundamentals, and develop your skill using theory. It does help you in music practicals as well. For some, it may be seen as restrictions being put when playing or composing music. However, it allows you to play with music further as basic rules are taught. I believe that music theory is crucial for any musician to learn and expand their knowledge upon, through reliable sources and books like Music Theory For Dummies.