Medical Benefits of Music

 

One of the ways that Tomoko keeps healthy is through her daily practice on the piano. It keeps her muscles flexible and her mind active. As a piano teacher, Tomoko also knows the benefits of piano lessons, not only for the benefits above, but also for hearing and visual acuity. Several aspects of music and medicines interdependence are showcased here.

Music and healing has a long history. Even in Greek mythology, Apollo was the god of both music and healing. More on the human level, Greek physicians used flutes and lyres to heal their patients, with particular attention to musical vibrations to aid digestion and treat mental disturbance. Shakespeare wrote of Lear’s physician who prescribed music the cure the king’s melancholy. Music therapy was mentioned in scientific literature as early as 1789, and early 20^th century surgeons noted positive outcomes when using music during procedures.

Doctors have been musicians themselves.  In the early 19^th century Dr. Rene Laennec invented the first stethoscope, which was a long hollow wood tube resembling a flute, which built on his knowledge as a flutist.  The late 19^th century innovative surgeon Theodor Billroth wanted to become a professional pianist, but his family convinced him to pursue medicine. Nevertheless, he held music gatherings and was a close friend of Brahms. Both Billroth and cardiac physician—and cellist-- T. W. Englemann had quartets dedicated to them by Brahms.  

The American Medical Association (AMA) asserts that music and the medical profession harness discipline and creativity.  Both musicians and doctors realize the importance of performance – and the amount of practice and coaching needed to perform will. Both require focused self-discipline and commitment to gain excellence.  And practicing the piano can be very therapeutic while going through medical school.

Music is also a stress reliever, which is another reason Tomoko values piano playing. Studies discovered that “just thirty minutes of listening to relaxing classical music and decrease levels of stress hormones in the blood,” states Caroline Brennan (MyChart, Oct. 31, 2023). So maybe piano practice a day keeps the doctor way – and helps the doctor perform better.

Health Benefits of the Piano

Tomoko has taught piano for 50 years, but you can’t tell by looking at her. She is healthy and full of energy. Has the piano helped? “The piano keeps me young. I have a bit of arthritis, but I play pieces that aren’t as challenging for my fingers, and it keeps them limber.” Even the regimen of daily piano practice keeps Tomoko focused and gives her a sense of well-being.

For centuries music has been known to improve people’s quality of life. Music can both relax and energize you. It can help you unwind at the end of the day, relieving – and escaping – life’s stresses.

These days there is even piano therapy, which can sometimes be more impactful than clinical treatments. Listening to piano music lowers blood pressure and cortisol levels, which can make you feel better and less stress. Music can help you think more objectively and calmly. Low pitched and melodic piano music can help overcome insomnia and facilitate calm comfortable sleep. Classical piano music can also stimulate the body to produce natural painkillers and help patients recover from surgeries. Listening to piano music can also reduce children’s aggressive behavior, and has been used to treat patients with depression, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

 And those health benefits come from listening.

Think of the benefits of planning the piano. Learning how to play the piano improves your memory and keeps your brain young. It helps for hand-eye coordination plus enhances split concentration. Obviously, playing the piano strengthens hand muscles and makes your arms stronger

Whether you listen to – or play – piano music, it helps you through difficult times. 

With the present COVID-19 situation, piano music can maybe save your life.