The Importance of Harnessing The Power of Music

By Sophia Spigler ‘25
The power that music holds is indescribable, yet often taken for granted; it is an outlet to help an individual express and process their emotions in any way they deem appropriate. Whether people use Spotify or Apple Music, play an instrument or listen to the radio, music surrounds us every day. Music can be anything and everywhere, but how one perceives that music is up to their interpretation. 

Music has the capability to provoke strong emotions in a way that other art forms cannot. With millions of artists, composers and melodies, there is a genre for every person, situation and sensation. It is good to have an eclectic taste in music and expand one’s horizons in genres and artists. Fitting one's music taste to their unique liking makes them more inclined to connect with the music on a personal level. 
According to a study on the benefits of music by Dr. Kevin Labar, a professor of psychology and neuroscience at Duke University, “What actually happens is that the calming effect induced by classical music releases dopamine to spike pleasure. The dopamine also prevents the release of stress hormones. From here, mood is improved, which therefore clarifies thinking – making tasks like essay writing and studying a lot more enjoyable.”
Slow, sorrowful music is considered to be more profound. According to Annemieke J.M. Van den Tol, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Lincoln’s School of Psychology, the more beautiful the music, the easier it is for listeners to become distracted from their troubling thoughts and concentrate on what they are listening to. However, the term “beautiful” is subjective, thus emphasizing the importance of individuals discovering their own taste in music.  
While it is natural for melancholy music to place an individual in a more despondent mood, it also provides a space for people to feel comforted about their particular problems. It is a heartening feeling to know that another individual has experienced similar emotions, been able to conquer them and inspire others to do the same. 
On the other hand, music can be uplifting as well. “Friday tefillahs and Kabalat Shabbats at our own synagogues always carry so much more joy thanks to the inclusion of music. Songs can lift our moods and spirits,” said Mr. Langer. “Let there be songs to fill the air.”
Music that fits one’s mood helps that individual feel comfortable in expressing vulnerability, allowing them to embrace their emotions. However, one must remember that music is meant to help inspire an individual to acknowledge and move past a challenging event rather than to wallow in one’s sadness.
Mental health is something teenagers and people of all ages struggle with, so understanding how to use music to tune in with one’s emotions is beneficial in challenging times. Music has the ability to boost or worsen one's mood, and it is up to us to decide how to harness that power for our own betterment.