Oddly enough, I can say I remember every single preposition I was taught in middle school. The only reason why I’m able to do it, is because my teacher taught us every word to the tune of “Jingle Bells”. Had she not put those words to a very familiar melody, I can 100% say I would not be able to remember every single one. Music has that special ability to help our brains process information and keep it stored safely for our entire lives. Think of music as a key to a treasure box. Music is one of the very few things that engages several areas of the brain at one time, which include auditory-motor cortex, memory, cognition, and emotions. You can also think of music as a workout for your entire brain and doing these workouts can actually change your brain’s physical structure, which creates stronger bonds between the different areas of your brain. That is why you may hear of people with dementia remembering the words to one of their favorite songs. Or how every child is able to remember 26 random letters with the “ABC’s” song. So even though it may look fun doing music therapy (which it is!), it’s actually a total workout for your entire brain. It’s that brain engagement that we use (as music therapists) to address specific goals a child may need and why the child is able to hold on to that progress for years to come. Take a look at this month’s visual aid that briefly goes over a few of the areas of the brain that music impacts. Happy singing!

 

Sara Chigani, MA, MT-BC, FAMI