Music is a powerful phenomena, capable of changing emotions, thoughts and behaviors. It’s rare to find somebody on this planet that doesn’t respond to Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony, move to Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, or tear to Debussy’s Claire de Lune. But more than a melodious delight to the ear, music has been known to literally enlighten the mind. However, is there credible evidence of music’s neurological impact on a recovering or struggling mind?
Surely the subjects of music psychology and cognitive neuroscience of music (a scientific study of brain-based mechanisms impacted by music) would argue in the affirmative. One facet of music psychology focuses on the therapeutic effects of music on memory. For example, one study showed a direct correlation between musical training and increased memory and retention. Furthermore, musicians have been found to have a more developed anterior portion of the corpus callosum, the area of the brain that connects the left and right hemisphere, and children exposed to music training before the age of seven have shown a larger corpus callosum than their counterparts. The right brain, known for spatial, emotional, and tonal processing, and the left brain, known for linguistic processing, have both dependent and independent functions. Large and deep rooted connections from the corpus callosum, relaying throughout the brain may explain why music has been known to aid in memory.
One reason why music, especially performing music, may have such a healthy impact on the mind is that it requires both motor and auditory systems to interact with each other, simultaneously. One pitch or note, instantly triggers the motor response of playing another. This impressive sensorimotor interplay is like weightlifting for the muscle and cardiovascular training for the heart and lungs. Dr. Chris Duma, a skilled Newport Beach Neurosurgeon [and skilled musician], has first-hand witnessed the power of music when dealing neuro-rehab patients. Says Dr. Duma, “I’ve seen a Parkinson’s patient place pegs into holes faster with the help of a rhythm. I’ve seen that same patient dance a tango, but only with the help of accompaniment. I’ve seen songs from long ago trigger the memory of Alzheimer’s sufferers.”
On Sunday, November 2, 2014, Dr. Duma supported the Music Heals II event, at the Laguna Woods Village Clubhouse III Theater, an event showcasing pieces from the composer Mike Garson who collaborated with patients who suffer from various disorders and ailments with the intent of health through music. Dr. Duma has observed the positive influence, motivation, and impact music can have on the human mind. To schedule a visit with Dr. Duma for yourself or a loved-one, call us at 949-642-6787. His team offers incredible experience and a full, unique support system, custom crafted for the most lasting health available.
