Between Silence and Melody—The Story of the Heart Woven by Music

Between Silence and Melody—The Story of the Heart Woven by Music

Hello. For about 20 years, I have spent my time in the music industry, living and breathing the music business. How consciously do you engage with music in your daily life?

We are constantly surrounded by music. The songs playing from earphones on the train, the background music in cafes, the jingles in TV commercials... But have you ever thought deeply about how that music affects your mind and body?

In fact, music has power that far exceeds our imagination. It can reduce stress, enhance concentration, and sometimes evoke deep emotions. From my perspective as someone who has been in the music industry for many years, I will talk about the mysterious power of music and how you can utilize it in your daily life.

By the time you finish reading this article, your 'way of listening to music' might change a little. Come on, let's step together into the world of the story of the heart woven by music!

What are the scientific effects of music on the brain and heart?

Music isn't just a 'pleasant sequence of sounds,' is it? Actually, even from a scientific perspective, it is a quite complex and interesting phenomenon.

First, when you listen to music, various chemical substances are secreted in the brain. For example, when you listen to your favorite music, dopamine, a 'happiness hormone,' is released. This is the same hormone that is released when you eat something delicious or fall in love, which is why it is often said that 'music is a brain drug.'

Also, listening to slow, relaxing music promotes the secretion of serotonin and oxytocin, and lowers the level of cortisol, a stress hormone. That is why listening to calm music when you are tired is healing. This isn't just in your head; there is a solid scientific basis for it!

What is even more interesting is the relationship between music and brain waves. Depending on the tempo and rhythm of the music, an 'entrainment phenomenon' occurs where our brain waves synchronize. For example, when you listen to slow music at around 60 BPM (60 beats per minute), alpha waves, which indicate a relaxed state, become dominant in your brain.

What I find particularly interesting while working in the music business is that the way people perceive the same song is completely different. This is because individual experiences, memories, and psychological states at the time are intricately intertwined. For example, a song you listened to right after a breakup might evoke sad feelings even years later. This is not so much the power of the music itself, but because our brains have the ability to link music with emotions and memories.

Differences in psychological effects by genre

The effects that music has on our hearts and bodies change significantly depending on the genre. This is a part that constantly surprises even me, having been in the music industry for many years.

First, classical music, especially Mozart's pieces, is said to have the effect of enhancing concentration and spatial recognition ability, to the point where there is even a term called the 'Mozart Effect.'

('The Mozart Effect' is a concept proposed in a 1993 study, which suggested that listening to Mozart's music temporarily improves spatial recognition ability. However, subsequent studies have shown poor reproducibility, and the sustainability and specificity of the effect have been questioned. Currently, it is believed that not just Mozart's music, but listening to music you like can potentially influence your mood and cognitive function.)

Baroque music (such as Bach or Vivaldi) often has a tempo of around 60 BPM, and is said to be effective for memory retention during learning. I personally often listen to Bach's 'Goldberg Variations' when I am creating important project proposals.

On the other hand, up-tempo rock or pop songs make you feel energetic. That is why they are perfect for boosting motivation during exercise. People who listen to music while training at the gym aren't just killing time; it is actually effective for improving performance.

Jazz and blues are said to stimulate creativity due to their improvisation and complex harmonies. They are perfect for when you need ideas or are doing creative work.

Environmental music and ambient music function as an 'environment,' as the name suggests, and are suitable for relaxation and meditation. Recently, 'lo-fi hip hop' has also become popular as background music for studying or working.

But you know, these are just general trends, and individual differences are huge. For example, a producer I know said that he can't concentrate unless he is listening to intense metal music. While it is a genre that would generally seem to hinder concentration, for that person, it is the best working environment.

That is why the fact that you cannot unconditionally say 'this music has this effect' is what makes music so interesting. I encourage you to consciously observe what kind of music brings what kind of effect to you. You might make some surprising discoveries!

The Practice and Surprising Effects of Music Therapy

Have you ever heard of 'music therapy'? This is not just a relaxation method; it is a legitimate professional field in medicine and welfare. As part of my work in the music industry, I have had the opportunity to observe music therapy in practice, and I was truly amazed by its effects.

Music therapy is utilized in various fields, such as dementia, depression, autism, and rehabilitation. For example, people with speech impairments regain their words through singing, and Parkinson's disease patients perform walking exercises to rhythmic music. The power of music is recognized even medically.

(Music therapy is utilized in the fields mentioned above, and much research has been conducted on its effects. However, there are individual differences in the degree and sustainability of the effects, and it does not have the same effect on everyone. Also, music therapy is strictly a complementary treatment, and it is common to use it in conjunction with other treatments.)

What was particularly impressive was the reaction of an elderly person with severe dementia when they heard a song they were familiar with in their youth. A person who usually showed almost no reaction would suddenly have their eyes light up when a nostalgic song played, and they would start singing the lyrics perfectly. It is said that memories related to music are often retained longer than other types of memories.

Furthermore, music therapy is not just about 'listening to music'; active participation, such as 'creating music' or 'moving to music,' is also an important element. By playing drums or simple instruments, it becomes a means of self-expression and communication.

Being in the music industry, I often hear the phrase 'the power of music,' but when I see music therapy in action, I realize it is not just a catchphrase; it truly has the power to change people's lives.

Music Therapy Approaches You Can Incorporate into Daily Life

You might think, 'Isn't music therapy something only professionals do?' but its concepts and techniques can certainly be incorporated into our daily lives.

First, the basic principle is 'choosing music that fits your purpose.' For example, if you have trouble waking up in the morning, it is effective to set an alarm with a song that gradually increases in tempo. Your brain will wake up naturally.

It is also recommended to set aside a 5-minute 'music time' to listen to your favorite songs before work or study. This alone can refresh your mood and significantly increase your concentration afterward. I also always listen to my favorite jazz before important meetings to get myself in the right frame of mind.

A 'music diary' is effective for stress relief. Just choose and listen to a song that matches your mood or the events of the day, and leave a simple note. When you listen to that song after some time has passed, the emotions and situation of that time will come back vividly, deepening your self-understanding.

Also, 'active musical experiences' are important. Singing your heart out at karaoke, singing in the shower, or moving your body to music. These actions have effects beyond just a simple mood change, leading to a reduction in stress hormones and an improvement in immune function.

If you want to improve the quality of your sleep, it is good to listen to music with a relaxing effect 30 minutes before going to bed. However, it is more effective to play it from a speaker at a low volume rather than using earphones or headphones. Personally, I recommend quiet piano or guitar solo pieces.

Just by being conscious of this 'way of using music,' the quality of your daily life will improve significantly. Try changing from 'listening to music aimlessly' to 'utilizing it with a purpose.' Your relationship with music will surely change.

The Deep Relationship Between Child Development and Music

The influence that music has on a child's development is truly immeasurable. While working in the music industry, I have been involved in music education programs for children, and I am amazed by their effects every time.

First, music promotes language development. Not only do children learn new words and expressions through singing, but the ability to recognize pitch and rhythmic patterns is directly linked to understanding the prosody of language. That is why children who are exposed to music from an early age tend to have higher language skills.

Also, playing an instrument is a complex task that uses various parts of the brain simultaneously. For example, when playing the piano, you move your hands differently, read sheet music, listen to the sound, and put emotion into it... Such experiences contribute significantly to the development of cognitive and motor skills.

Furthermore, group music activities (such as choral singing or ensemble playing) foster social skills and cooperation. While taking responsibility for playing one's own part, one must also listen to the overall harmony. This experience cultivates the ability to cooperate with others while fulfilling one's own role within society.

There was an incident at a music school where a boy who was extremely shy about speaking in front of others gradually gained confidence through playing an instrument, and eventually, he was able to perform with poise at a recital. Music has the power to provide a 'safe space for self-expression'.

However, what is important is 'enjoyment,' not 'compulsion.' Rather than forcing strict practice for the sake of the future, letting children experience the joy and fun of music is more effective in the long run. As far as I have seen, children who enjoy music naturally improve faster as well.

How to Engage with Music by Age Group

Depending on a child's developmental stage, the way they engage with music also changes. Based on my experience of being involved in music education for many years, I would like to introduce an approach by age group.

First, the infancy period from 0 to 2 years old. This is a time to 'bathe in music.' Sing lullabies to them or let them listen to various genres of music. Playing games where parent and child sway their bodies or clap their hands to songs with a clear rhythm is particularly effective. Children at this age can recognize musical elements (rhythm and melody) before they can speak.

Once they reach the toddler stage of 3 to 6 years old, they enter the phase of 'playing with music.' Rhythm games using simple percussion instruments (such as tambourines or castanets) and activities that involve dancing while singing are ideal. Since they are good at imitating at this age, it is also important for adults to show them that they are enjoying music.

When they reach elementary school age, more structured musical activities become possible. Through activities that 'create music,' such as playing instruments or choral singing, they foster a sense of accomplishment and cooperation. However, what is important at this stage is not 'whether they are good or bad' but 'whether they like it or not.' I would like you to prioritize fostering an interest in music above all else.

By the time they reach junior high and high school, music becomes an important element of self-expression and identity formation. They may become obsessed with their favorite artists, or start writing or playing their own music. Musical experiences during this period often have a significant impact on their later lives.

What I especially want to convey is that it is not only 'children with musical talent' who benefit from music education. Music is a powerful tool that helps all children grow. Therefore, please do not give up by saying, 'My child has no musical talent,' and instead create opportunities for them to encounter music in various forms.

The Mysterious Relationship Between Music and Memory

Have you ever had the experience of thinking, 'Listening to that song reminds me of summer vacation when I was in high school...'? The connection between music and memory is truly mysterious and powerful.

In fact, music tends to be more strongly linked to memory than other sensory stimuli. This is because music simultaneously activates multiple regions of the brain (the auditory cortex, motor cortex, the amygdala which governs emotions, etc.). Since memories accompanied by emotions are particularly likely to remain strong, the events of that time are vividly remembered along with the emotions evoked by the music.

When working in the music industry, I often hear artists say things like, 'I wrote that song when I was...' or 'The time I was making this album was the best time of my life.' For them, music is also a record of their lives.

What is interesting is that even if other memories are lost due to conditions like dementia, memories related to music often remain. This is thought to be because music is stored in the deeper parts of the brain (the areas that govern procedural memory). That is precisely why music therapy plays an important role in dementia care.

Also, music is effective for memory retention in learning. For example, content studied while listening to a specific song becomes easier to recall later when listening to that same song. This is called 'state-dependent memory,' and it is a technique you can use for studying before a test.

In my own experience, when I listen to a song I was listening to 20 years ago after a long time, the emotions and scenery of that time sometimes come back vividly. It is a mysterious feeling, like riding a time machine.

How to 'Save' Memories with Music

By utilizing the strong connection between music and memory, there is a way to 'save' precious memories. This is something I have been practicing for many years as someone in the music industry, and it is quite effective.

First, create a 'memory playlist.' For every important event or period in your life, compile songs you were listening to often at that time or songs that express how you felt then. For example, things like 'College Days,' 'First Trip Abroad,' or 'Meeting So-and-so'.

Also, consciously setting a "theme song" for special events is a good method. For example, listening only to a specific album while traveling, or playing a certain song during time spent with a loved one. When you listen to that song later, the memories of that time will come back more vividly.

Taking it a step further, I also recommend keeping a "music diary." Choose a song that perfectly matches the events or emotions of the day and record it along with a brief note. When you listen back to that "soundtrack" years later, you may find that it helps you recall the emotions and atmosphere of that time even better than a diary.

It is especially good to consciously associate music with major life turning points (such as graduation, starting a job, marriage, or childbirth). An acquaintance of mine has a custom of playing the song they were listening to on the day their child was born every year on that child's birthday. It has become a wonderful family tradition.

However, you need to be careful with music associated with painful memories. If a song you loved becomes linked to a painful experience, you might find yourself unable to listen to it afterward. To avoid "tainting" your precious songs, it might be a piece of wisdom to listen to music you aren't as attached to when you are feeling deep sadness or anger.

The "memory-preserving power" of music is truly astonishing. I hope you will consciously utilize it to keep the important moments of your life in your memory more vividly.

Music Heard in Silence—What the Stillness of the Heart Creates

When people hear the word "music," many think of "sound." But in reality, "silence" and "pauses" are also extremely important elements in music.

If you have ever listened to Japanese traditional music like Gagaku or Noh, you know that the concept of "Ma" (space/pause) exists there. The silence between sounds enhances the meaning and value of the sound that follows. This is a universal element that also applies to Western music.

The classical music master Beethoven lost his hearing almost completely in his later years, yet his greatest works were born during that period. Even though he could not hear external sounds, his inner music was resonating richly.

Also, in modern society, we are often surrounded by some kind of sound (BGM or noise), but it is important to consciously create "time for silence" once in a while. When you listen to your inner self in complete stillness, you may notice your own "inner music" that you usually don't pay attention to.

In his piece "4'33"," the musician John Cage presented a time where the performer does not play at all, spending the time in silence, as "music." This piece, which may seem strange at first glance, actually teaches us that "complete silence does not exist." The coughing in the audience, the sound of the air conditioning, the sound of cars from outside... various "music" is actually hidden even within silence.

Practical Methods for Incorporating "Musical Silence" into Daily Life

The idea of "music in silence" might sound a bit difficult. But the ways to incorporate this into your daily life are surprisingly simple.

First, let's start by creating "conscious time for silence." For example, just for five minutes right after waking up or before going to bed, try turning off the TV and smartphone and spending time in a quiet environment. At first, you might feel restless from "doing nothing," but as you get used to it, you will start to feel a sense of comfort.

Next is the practice of "listening to environmental sounds." This is also a simple form of meditation; you consciously listen to environmental sounds you don't usually pay attention to (the sound of the wind, birds chirping, the sound of distant cars, etc.). If you do this, you will realize that daily life is filled with music.

Also, when listening to music, try to be conscious of the "pauses." Especially in jazz and classical music, there are "moments of silence" intentionally created by the performers. If you pay attention to the effect brought about by those "pauses" and the change in the impression of the sound that comes after the silence, your way of listening to music will change.

What I particularly like is a method called "soundwalking." This is a way of walking while consciously listening to the surrounding sounds, whether in nature or in the city. If you walk without listening to music through earphones, you will notice a surprisingly rich "soundscape." If you do this regularly, your sensitivity to everyday sounds will increase, and you will be able to enjoy music more deeply.

Furthermore, for those who engage in creative activities, I recommend trying "inspiration from silence." In complete stillness, try noting down the melodies, rhythms, and images that come to mind. This can sometimes lead to unexpected creativity.

The practice of "musical silence" has effects that go beyond mere relaxation. The habit of listening to your inner voice will deepen your self-understanding, enhance your creativity, and cultivate the ability to experience music more richly.

To Build a New Relationship with Music

I have talked about various aspects of music so far, but in closing, I would like to share some thoughts on how to build a new relationship with music.

It could be said that we live in an era where music is overly abundant. While we have easy access to tens of millions of songs through streaming services, the trend of music becoming mere 'background noise' may be reducing our opportunities to engage with it deeply.

Having been in the music industry for nearly 20 years and observing both the creators and the listeners, I am convinced that by re-evaluating our 'relationship with music,' the benefits it brings can be even greater.

First, I recommend setting aside 'time for conscious listening.' For example, try setting aside just 30 minutes once a week to 'focus solely on music.' Instead of listening while looking at your smartphone or working, listen only to the music. This alone will significantly change the quality of your musical experience.

Next is to 'enjoy the diversity of music.' Try listening to genres you don't usually listen to or music from different cultures. Encountering new music is also an encounter with a new version of yourself. Personally, I only listened to rock when I was young, but by exploring jazz, classical, and folk music from around the world, my understanding of music has become many times richer.

Also, 'live music experiences' are important. Recorded music is wonderful, but live performances—whether at concerts, live houses, or street performances—have a unique charm. Especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, I feel that the value of the 'joy of sharing music in the same space' has been rediscovered.

And above all, I recommend 'becoming a creator of music yourself.' Play an instrument, sing, or compose. It doesn't matter if you aren't good at it or if no one else hears it. By changing music from something you 'consume' to something you 'create,' your relationship with it becomes deeper and more personal.

Finally, music is also something to be 'shared.' Share your favorite songs with loved ones or talk about music together. Communication through music is a wonderful way to share emotions and values that cannot be conveyed by words alone.

Summary: How to engage with music that colors your life

Well, in this article titled 'The Story of the Heart Woven by Music,' I have discussed how music influences our minds, bodies, memories, and human relationships.

Music is not just 'entertainment to be enjoyed with the ears'; it acts deeply upon our brains and hearts, and sometimes has the power to change our lives. By consciously utilizing that power, you can make your daily life richer, healthier, and more creative.

Having been involved in the music business for nearly 20 years, I still witness the 'power of music' countless times. Seeing people overcome with sadness being comforted by music, seeing those who have lost their words regain self-expression through song, and above all, seeing how people connect through music makes me truly glad to be involved in this work.

I hope you, the reader of this article, will try changing your relationship with music a little starting today. Try consciously choosing the song you listen to when you wake up, challenge yourself with a new genre during your commute, or end your day with quiet music before going to sleep... Why not start with such small changes?

And above all, try to perceive music not just as something to 'listen to,' but as something to 'feel,' 'create,' and 'share.' By doing so, music will surely accompany your life in a deeper and more meaningful way.

May music bring even more color and depth to your life.

Thank you for reading until the end. I hope your 'heart's story' is filled with wonderful music.

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