Music does indeed invoke emotional response in the listener, and the response varies by the music. A nice, soothing piano solo composed by George Winston calms and relaxes. A throbbing dance tune by Lady Gaga pumps and energizes. Whatever mood you wish to invoke, there’s a song for that. We’ll call it iSong. ;-)
But did you know that music invokes emotional response in the player, too? When you master a new piece of music while taking music lessons, you feel a sense of accomplishment and pride. And when the music starts to become second nature, you put your own emotions into the music. Your peace, or the peace you dream of, finds its way into your song. Your energy comes out in the rhythmic drive. Your sadness and your joy come across to the listener in the swells and movement of the music.
Music performance is music therapy for multiple reasons. First, you can use music to soothe your weary soul. Unload your emotional burdens into your song and find your problems melting away. Second, the technical act of playing an instrument (including your own vocal cords) requires your focus and coordination. Fine motor skills, concentration skills, and multitasking ability are enhanced by music performance.
As a result, we’re making music performance a foundation of music education at Michelle Tuesday Music School in Gahanna, Ohio. If you take music lessons, you should share what you learn. You’ll find your music lessons much more productive and rewarding if you have music performance opportunities to work toward.
The bottom line? Music performance is good for your health. Drink up!
Michelle Tuesday Music School offers piano lessons, guitar lessons, bass lessons, drum lessons, and rock band coaching in Gahanna, Ohio.