Why does music work as therapy? One basic principle is that music is processed all over the brain, unlike speech which tends to be connected to two specific areas. Therefore, music can be used to re-wire the brain that is not functioning typically, and also music can access emotions and memories that refuse to come out in words. There is a repetitive and cyclical element to music which can reinforce and aid in learning.
Another reason for music’s effectiveness is the body’s own muscular reactions to music, most especially the rhythmic element. There is scientific evidence now available to show that the electrical charges in muscles will fire regularly when music is used as a rhythmic auditory stimulus. Ever notice you can go farther and longer when exercising with music? Our bodies respond to music without our necessarily even being consciously aware of it! The reasons why music works as therapy are stated very simply here, only hinting at all the scientific data available.
Music therapy provides avenues for communication that can be helpful to those who find it difficult to express themselves in words. Research in music therapy supports its effectiveness in many areas such as: overall physical rehabilitation and facilitating movement, increasing people’s motivation to become engaged in their treatment, providing emotional support for clients and their families, and providing an outlet for expression of feelings. Through musical involvement in the therapeutic context, clients’ abilities are strengthened and transferred to other areas of their lives.
One of the beauties of using music therapeutically is that it can be enjoyed by people of all ages, from the infant to the very old. Music has many diverse styles, and can be very simple or complex, lending a flexibility to music as the medium for therapy.