Students find comfort and expression through music

For ages, the powerful notes of music have inspired, changed and even saved lives of a countless number of people. A great French writer Victor Hugo had once said, “Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent.”

Composers and songwriters, from the past as well as modern days, share the common desire to tell a story in a unique fashion. The goal is also to attract the attention of the listener and not only leave them satisfied but also in some way to influence their life and thought process.

Music often helps organize thoughts and calm one’s mind in times of grief or loss, serving as one of the greatest consolations to the human heart. Moreover, studies and observations have shown that music soothes physical pain by distracting the mind and focusing on notes and lyrics.

Hard and boring work is made easier and more enjoyable with music, as it boosts mood and improves imaginativeness, helping an individual to acquire the necessary positive attitude and thought process. Mind thrives in the midst of glorious musical notes, enhancing creativity and level of concentration.

However, though music is often recognized as valuable and harmless, there are nevertheless certain negative aspects to it. As a consequence of listening to blaring music constantly, which is often the case of many teens, the problems with hearing, an increase of anxiety, and such may occur.

Melancholy, dark, and depressing music while beneficial to some individuals, may be more harmful to others, making misfortunes and pessimistic thoughts appear even worse. Furthermore, it can also be disruptive while driving or attempting important tasks which require full attention.

In spite of the few negative incidents the music may cause, it remains very beneficial to health and mind to a great number of individuals. Known as James Barre on YouTube, Colton Allen, ‘20, has done many song covers, and defines music as a freedom of expression.

“Music is the ability to say something in a way that it has never been explained before,” Alan said. “Music to me means freedom because there aren’t a lot of rules aside from basic guidelines. Really it just means the ability to do what you want, when you want, and how you want. I like to think of music as therapy because sometimes there is just no way to explain how your feeling unless there are some beat and cords behind it. I find it easier to sing something that to say something.

“Music can change someone’s life drastically,” Alan continued. “In good ways or bad ways. I’m sure there has been a time when you listen to a song, and you just think: “you read my mind!” It can be so personal to you. I think music has a lot of power. It allows you to find out who you are, and it gives you a hobby!”

A worship team member on campus Nathan Mount, ‘18, sees music as an outstanding way to praise God and develop a more creative mind.

“The way I define music is the time to enjoy myself or sing out to God,” Mount said. “It’s important to me because music is something I truly cherish. It makes me feel all kinds of emotions, but what I feel the most is the fact that God hears me sing out to Him. Music has completely changed my life, and taking part in the worship team has made the biggest difference in my life. I strive to try harder every day to become better in music for God.”

Member of the Ladies’ Ensemble and a great music fan, Macie Thompson, ‘19, believes music is very beneficial at times of the necessary concentration or comfort.

“Music is very inspirational,” Thompson said. “It has affected my life by giving me courage and allowing to express myself. To me, music is unique because it gives a way of expression through catchy words. It’s very helpful if you need time to focus, or even a time to cry.”

Today music takes the place of one of the most popular hobbies amongst people of all ages. It can easily be considered an immortal power, as it had lived through untold ages and served a countless number of people.

Tell us about your love for music and how it inspired you in a comment below.

This writer can be reached via Twitter: @Tatiana08102000.