Health: Music and the Mind

Music and Healing: The Powerful Connection
Grosse Pointe Music Academy Staff

More and more every day, it seems we hear how music helps promote healing and emotional well-being. While it’s unlikely that musicians or music therapists will ever rival pharmaceutical companies in wealth, it’s surprising that the healing power of music hasn’t become more mainstream in medical treatment.

Music therapy is a growing field that shows significant benefits, especially for patients with conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. Although music cannot cure Alzheimer’s or reverse its effects on the brain, it can greatly improve the quality of life for patients and caregivers alike. Studies and real-world experience show that individuals who may otherwise seem unreachable often respond positively to music—even when they respond to nothing else.

Familiar songs can help ease transitions, reduce agitation, and create a sense of connection. Music therapists work with families to select melodies that are comforting and familiar, allowing patients to experience calm and joy through singing, humming, or simply listening. Even informal approaches—like reading poetry or humming a favorite tune—can create meaningful moments for patients.

The American Music Therapy Association (musictherapy.org) offers resources and can help connect families with trained music therapists in their area.

This reflection draws inspiration from Christine Gorman’s article, “Health: Music and the Mind,” published in Time Magazine. You can view the original article here.

At Grosse Pointe Music Academy, we believe in the lasting, positive impact of music for people of all ages and stages of life.

by Henry Bahrou – Guitarist, Music Theorist, Music Academy Director