Unit 1: Music -- Music and Moods

Music and Moods

1 Have you ever felt a sudden rush of joy because a favorite song came on the radio? Then you know that music can have a strong effect on your emotions. You should try to take advantage of this power of music. It can help you beat a bad mood or maintain a good mood, says Alicia Ann Clair, professor of music therapy at the University of Kansas. Music can also help you relax and feel rejuvenated.

2 To cheer up or boost energy, listen to Latin music or anything with accented beats, lots of percussion, and a fast tempo. When you want to relax after a busy day, music with string instruments and woodwinds, less percussion, and a slower tempo can calm you.

3 Listen to calming music before you tackle stressful activities, recommends Dr. Clair. “Once you’re in a good state of mind, it’s easier to maintain.” To reduce stress at work, put on relaxing tunes only when you really need them. Woodwind instruments “If you listen to them all day long, you will screen them out,” Dr. Clair explains.

4 You can change your mood by switching from one kind of music to another. To feel rejuvenated, “Start with something serene and relaxing, then gradually pick up the tempo and beat,” says Dr. Clair. For example, play Frank Sinatra ballads, then move on to something energetic such as Aretha Franklin. When you want to calm down after a busy week at work, do the opposite.



String instruments






Adapted from Woman’s Day.

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Percussion instruments