Appreciate Music

Music is an art form, but it has many purposes other than just listening to it. Ancient civilization artifacts as well as Biblical references suggest that music was considered a powerful influence on physical health and well-being. It has been used as a motivator to do many activities such as work out or just doing household chores. When music is used in therapy, it can reach even those resistant to other treatment approaches due to its accessibility, familiarity, feelings of security associated with it, and its capacity to express the range of human emotion.

Steps

  1. Listen to all types of music, and get a feel for what you like. Don't be afraid to listen to any genre of music you find, because you might really enjoy it.
    • Be open to anything, and you will be surprised at what you like.
  2. Try understanding what point the artist is trying to convey. Many songs have hidden messages that the artist wants you to find.
  3. Listen carefully. Is it the guitar that pops out at you? The piano? Maybe it's even the singer's voice. Everything put in compositions are put there for a reason.
  4. Try to pick out the different instruments. If the song is slow and pretty, listen to the different parts and appreciate what they bring to the music.
  5. Think about what you have heard. Try to find what kinds of music and what instruments grab you, and go from there.
  6. Be conscious that modern music always comes from academic music. Listen to music from all time, starting from classical to contemporary.
  7. Invest in music. CD's, concerts, books and lessons are some steps to know more.

Tips

  • If you are having trouble understanding what the artist is saying, there are many websites that list the lyrics.
  • In some cases you will not like a song the first time you hear it; listen to it at least 3 times before you decide that you don't like it for sure.
  • Don't dismiss the Oldies. Some of the greatest bands have been around for a greater deal of time than you would expect. Try listening to "legendary" bands such as the Beatles and Led Zeppelin.
  • Listen to a song repeatedly to understand its true meaning. Songs that do not sound appealing to you upon first listen might sound better after a few more.
  • In many music stores you can preview the songs on a CD before you buy it so you can listen to a few songs and see if it's for you.
  • When using music therapy Try to focus on the tempo of the song, and try to get into it; don't just give up before even trying.
  • If you prefer more modern music, you could try listening to Rock or Pop. If you really want to experiment with genres, try Electro, House or even Glitch Hop. They all have a modern electronic sound to them.

Warnings

  • Listening to music too loud can cause an earache, headache or permanent hearing loss.
  • Avoid listening to overly loud or up-beat music before going to bed. This will only keep you awake, and will end up making you feel more drained the next day. More soothing music is a better choice before bed.

Things You'll Need

  • Music
  • An electronic device that plays music (Radio, Vinyl, MP3 player, Cell phone, Computer etc.)
  • A comfortable Area (One where you can play music with little interruptions and without causing distraction to others)

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Sources and Citations