Chances are you’ve heard that there are several benefits of listening to classical music. But is there any actual truth behind this statement? According to numerous studies, there absolutely is.
There are a ton of brainy benefits one derives from deciding to play classical music. From pain management to improved sleep quality, listening to classical music has both mental and physical benefits.
In fact, simply listening to classic music songs as background noise can have a significant impact on your mood, productivity, and creativity.
I guess those old guys were really onto something, huh.
Below are some surprising benefits when you listen to classical music backed by actual science.
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10 Benefits of Listening to Music
Is classic music actually beneficial?
1. Decreases blood pressure
Want to keep your heart healthy? According to an Oxford University study, listening to classical music can help reduce one’s blood pressure.
In the study, researchers played participants different styles of music, including rap, pop, techno, and classical.
Classical music was effective at lowering participant’s blood pressure, while rap, pop, and techno actually raised blood pressure.
2. Boosts memory
Does classical music make you smarter? Did you know that listening to Mozart can actually help improve your memory? According to a study, people who listened to Mozart’s music showed an increase in brain wave activity that’s linked directly to memory.
So next time you have to memorize a big speech or presentation, put on some Mozart while you practice.
3. Sparks creativity
To get your creative juices flowing, listen to some classical music. While listening to classical music won’t instantly make you creative, it will help put into a more creative mindset, according to music experts at Guitar Junky.
Next time you need to brainstorm, try listening to some Mozart or Bach to get your mind thinking outside the box.
4. Reduces stress levels
If you’re feeling particularly stressed, listen to some classical tunes. A study found that pregnant women who listened to classical music were less likely to feel stressed throughout their pregnancy.
Scientists claim that classical music’s tempo is similar to the human heart, which eases both anxiety and depression.
5. Supercharges brainpower
Do you have a big test or project coming up? Boost your brainpower by listening to some classical music.
In a study, French researchers found that students who listened to a lecture in which classical music was played in the background scored better on a test compared to other students.
6. Fights depression
When you’re feeling down in the dumps, ditch the donuts and opt for some classical music instead.
Several studies have proven that classical music helps relieve depression and melancholy.
In fact, a study from Mexico discovered that listening to classical music can help ease symptoms of depression.
7. Puts you to sleep
Do you toss and turn for hours before finally falling asleep? Rather than squeeze in another episode of Games of Thrones or New Girl, listen to classical music.
According to a study of people with sleep issues, listening to classical music for just 45 minutes prior to bed can help improve sleep quality.
8. Relieves pain
Instead of reaching for another Tylenol, you might want to consider playing a Bach or Beethoven playlist. Multiple studies have shown that listening to classical music can help relieve pain.
According to researchers in London, patients listening to classical music used significantly less pain medication.
9. Makes you happy
Want to get out of that bad mood you’re in? Listening to classical music can help increase dopamine secretion, which activates the brain’s reward and pleasure center.
In fact, a 2013 study found that music can help put people in a better mood.
10. Improves productivity
Does classical music help you study?
It’s a Monday morning and you can’t seem to get it together. To help boost productivity, listen to some classical music.
A series of studies have proven that music makes repetitive tasks more enjoyable.
A study performed by researchers at the University of Maryland found that Baroque classical music in the reading room can help improve radiologists’ efficiency and accuracy.
Give it a Try!
While classical music songs can’t raise your IQ 10 points, there are a ton of benefits of listening to classical music. Not sure where to start? Our friends at Merriam Music put together a great beginner’s guide here.
Whether you need to cram for an important presentation or you simply want a good night’s sleep, classical music can help. But Don’t just take our word for it. Try it out for yourself and let us know what benefits of listening to classical music you experience!
All of the above is absolutely true! I’m thankful and relieved when clinics play classical music. When I hear pop music in clinics, it’s disturbs my mood I almost want to ask them to change station. Don’t get me wrong, I love all kinds of music. When I used to lay in bed in Emergency Room with migraine headache, this clinic had classical music playing. Nothing can ease migraine pain but the sound of classical music did! It felt like sound of heaven easing the pain! Beethoven station on Pandora is on all day in my office – I can focus and put out taskers! Classical music rocks!
Hi Connie-Thanks for the comment! We can’t agree more-classical music is great!
Great article, thanks for including links to all the scientific research!
Thanks J.P.-We’re so glad you enjoyed the article.
Reduces stress levels–unless you’re performing it while listening to it. 🙂
Great article – we need more attention given to the benefits of classical music in society. It raises one’s awareness and intellect far above most forms of pop music. Thank you for this!
You’re welcome! We’re glad you enjoyed the article.
Thanks for the article and love the infographic!
You’re welcome Kathrin. We’re glad you enjoy it!
May I reproduce this poster for use with students or is there a copyright infringement involved?
Hi Erika, You can definitely use it on a poster! 🙂 -Jess from TakeLessons
Relieves stress, expect for some Liszt pieces.
But I love classical anyways.
Great article though.
🙂
Thank you! We’re glad you enjoyed the article.
My grocery store, my gas station and my dentist all play classical music. I really notice a difference if I get gas or groceries somewhere else.
Thanks, this a very good and helpful article!
I hope it’ll help with my depression ;w;
Sir I would like to add the points by the use of binary music we get more benefit I have just read about on another website. bites which are for the specific state of mind rest working etc .
Hello My Name is Anna How Are You? I Am I Trying To Start A Blog On Various Topics. I Am Also Trying To Start A Lifestyle Brand With Various Topics I Am In Progress of Writing About Anxiety and Depression I Have Done Internet Research on Classical Music And Anxiety . And It Works THANK YOU if I would have never found this article I wouldn’t have remember the positive affects it has on anxiety to were i am listening more than rap music . To make this short may i use this article on my wix blog just email me when you can i am going finish it tonight
It’s true that listening to classical music can reduce stress level as it soothes and relaxes our moods. My husband loves jazz music because it’s calming and relaxing. We are planning to have our anniversary date tomorrow, and he prefers a jazz speakeasy restaurant. We will find one soon.