Sound and music are probably two of the most important elements in the development of human history.
Technically, sound is defined as a traveling wave that is an oscillation of pressure which is transmitted through a solid, a liquid or a gas. Sound is used by a lot of living species in detecting danger, navigation, predation as well as communication. Sound has also been a vital element in the development of speech, language, music, culture and technology. On the other hand, music is defined as an art form of auditory communication which uses instrumental or vocal tones arranged in a continuous and structured manner. Human beings are born with an appreciation for music. It usually has different meanings to different individuals. Music serves as a means of learning, of relaxation and pleasure. It is also used to interpret or relay different messages across various cultures in history.
Music is biologically embedded in a person’s brain. As the brain is scanned, both hemispheres are able to respond to sounds, rhythms and melodies, while language is present only in the brain’s left hemisphere. Once music is heard, the brain processes it through a method that is called working memory. This would mean that the incoming messages are compared to the stored information in the brain. For an individual to comprehend music, the perceptual system, sensory system, motor system, cognitive system and pleasure system are all utilized. Experts believe in the theory that if a certain part of the brain would not be used for a long period of time, it could devolve, eventually becoming virtually useless. By listening to music, the neurons in the brain work at rapid rates, in a way exercising them. Without listening to music, they could turn off, possibly forever. And so, for the brain to be function properly, sound and music should be a part of a person’s daily life.
As sound and music are very useful for the mental development of human beings, doctors usually suggest playing music for babies during the first year of their life. This has been said to enhance an individual’s ability to learn. Studies also show that by regularly listening to music during the first years of their lives, children can learn language and reading a lot faster compared to those children who have not been as exposed to music. They are also more creative, more confident and are more capable of social interaction with their peers. For adults, performing music and regular listening to music also offer positive effects. Many people incorporate music into daily routine by putting songs of their favorite artists in their portable players and listening to them as they go to work or as they go through the day.
Today, music of all genres has become even more indispensable in our lives. It has evolved through the years and is continuing to evolve to satisfy man’s hunger for new sounds. It has become a part of our history and is helping us to reach new heights in all aspects of the society.