Here’s an experiment you can try: think of 3-5 words in your head. These words have to be lyrics to a song. A song you know. Try to mouth those words. Do you hear the melody that accompanies the song?
Language of the Soul
Why is music important? Is it because music is the language our emotions would speak if they found a voice? Or because music transcends all human languages? Is music important because it communicates a singular message to the farmer in Thailand as to the lawyer in Nairobi? It is. It is because of this and much more. Music is the language of the soul. It has deep effects on the listener beyond just the sounds.
The importance of music in our lives cannot be overstated. We listen to music when we are in the kitchen as we prepare a meal, while we work on our desks, and while performing almost any task. Thanks to the rise and spread of various streaming platforms, those who love music can now enjoy millions of songs on demand.
History of Music
The history of music dates back to the beginning of humanity. Archaeologists have unearthed musical instruments made of bone and ivory from as far back as 50000 years. Many communities around the world have used music to pass knowledge of their traditions and culture to the younger generations.
Forms of Music
Music comes in many forms. It can be created with intention or it can spring freely from nature; like the flow of a river, the crack of thunder during a storm, the roar of waves in the sea or the sounds of birds in the sky. Music is a potent force in the world. It has the power to shift and affect our moods.
Plato, the Athenian philosopher who lived during the classical period in ancient Greece understood the importance of music. Plato said that music is a moral law. “It gives a soul to the Universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, a charm to sadness, gaiety and life to everything. It is the essence of order, and leads to all that is good and just and beautiful.”
It Affects our Wellness
Music is an essential part of life because it affects our wellness. When we listen to happy music with upbeat rhythms we feel happy and energetic. The music you expect to hear when a movie character breaks up with their partner is not the same music you would expect to hear if the movie character had just gotten a promotion at work. Music brings us all together though a shared taste in music. It challenges us to grow through experiencing new music. It brings us together when we perform or dance together to the same vibe.
King David, – shepherd, musician, poet, king
In ancient Biblical times music played a crucial role among the Israelites. Music was an important part in their worship of God. They sang during religious ceremonies, before warfare, and even during warfare. One of the most popular music lovers is King David. As a shepherd, David played music on his harp and praised God. David also composed many psalms in his lifetime. When King Saul was anguished, David played his harp and calmed the king.
Artistic Expression
Music is also a form of artistic expression. It requires creative thinking and technical skills to produce. What a Van Gogh painting is to the eyes, music is to the ears.
The importance of music is not negotiable. Music is a great tool to help heal the mind and soul. It relives stress, it educates, it brings us all together.
