“Ahh, Science…Music to my ears!”
Can you finish this chorus? “Twinkle, twinkle, little star…”
How about “ Ain’t no mountain high enough, ain’t no valley low enough; Ain’t no…”
Here’s another one to try, “You are my sunshine,…”
Okay, if you’ve had enough, we’ll just “Let it go, let it go…!”
Did you find yourself singing out loud? Humming? Could you hear the song in your head? Did certain memories come to mind?
If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, it’s because music is not only artist expression and entertainment, it is scientific and it is mathematical.
PBS Learning Media describes music in this way:
“…Music is also based in science: sound is produced when something vibrates-and those vibrations are brought to the ear as sound waves. And it’s mathematical, varying in pitch, volume, tempo, and rhythm…”
Music is also connected to the science of medicine. The Cleveland Clinic was one of the early pioneers of using evidence-based music therapy to help patients psychologically, emotionally, physically, spiritually, cognitively, and socially. Many people have reduced pain and increased motivation because of music. Numerous studies have shown the healing power of music.
The best part of music is the fun and energy that it brings! Music is in some way relevant to every situation in life. If you are celebrating a victory, you can dance to the beat. If you are grieving a loss, you can pour out your heart in song. And, oh, the memories of that special someone when “your song” is played.
Students engaged in learning that integrates music can experience improved comprehension and less stress. As a result, these students are much better prepared to contribute to the artistic, scientific, and mathematical field of music that can provide inspiration and healing to our world.
I invite you to conduct an experiment, similar to the ones the students at CSA-Xenia will perform. Set a time to engage in a task that does not typically evoke joy or is a challenge (ex. sorting and taking out the garbage). Complete the first half of the task in silence. For the second half of the task sing a song, hum a tune, or tap out a rhythm. Compare the results. Did engaging in the task with music make a difference?
