The Power of Music

 

(Image Description: Several instruments are featured in a circle within a music therapy clinic, including the marimba, xylophone, cabasa, drums, and more. People are gathered around the circle interacting with the instruments.)

The Power of Music

Music is constantly present in everyone's lives. From listening to popular music on the radio to performing in an orchestra to singing along with friends, music can provide an outlet for joy and creativity. Beyond personal fulfillment, music can also play a transformative role in the lives of individuals of all abilities.

In this blog, I want to share a more personal story about my experiences with music and how it has positively impacted those around me. I hope that this blog will not only raise awareness about different approaches to music, but also give you a new outlook on the power of music as a whole.

My Background

Ever since we were young, my brother Sammy and I have both had a fond appreciation for music. I have been taking piano lessons since I was six years old, and Sammy would love to test out new pieces, either by singing them or playing them on the piano. As we grew up, my brother would keenly listen to me practice piano, quietly appreciating the melodies. Despite no formal training, Sammy would begin sounding out my pieces and replicating them near perfectly on his own piano.

Through this shared passion for music, Sammy and I have been able to develop our own unique form of communication. Sammy was diagnosed with autism at the age of two, resulting in difficulty with verbally communicating with others. However, music has been a powerful way for us to connect when words have been challenging. From singing along to our favorite TV shows to practicing tricky piano pieces together, music has brought us together as we have grown up. These experiences have shown me that music is a powerful, universal language that connects individuals of all abilities and backgrounds. Perhaps my favorite quote to sum up this experience is by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen: "When words fail, music speaks."

(Image Description: The author's brother, Sammy, is practicing some of his favorite songs on his electronic piano.)

The Benefits of Music

Outside of a recreational setting, music has been clinically shown to make a difference in the lives of individuals of various abilities. Specifically, music therapy is a rapidly developing profession that uses musical interventions to accomplish individualized goals, such as promoting wellness, alleviating pain, enhancing memory, improving communication, and more.

Last summer, I had the opportunity to volunteer at Camp Create, an eight-week summer program designed for individuals with IDD to engage in music and art therapy. Through this experience, I have further witnessed the role of music in building life skills and encouraging self-expression. For example, passing drums in a group setting hones social skills, while working on an interactive piano piece builds resilience and mental stamina.

(Image Description: A participant at Camp Create works on relaxation skills with a music therapist by interacting with an ocean drum.)

Incorporating Music In Your Chapter

Music can be a great way for members of your chapter to creatively engage with one another. Here are some suggestions on how to incorporate music in your events:

1. Host a Best Buddies talent show! This can be a great way for buddies and peer buddies to show off their musical talents, whether it be singing, dancing, playing an instrument, and more.
2. Take your chapter to a musical production or another musical event: This could range from anything from your school's musical to a local dance to a concert in your area (as long as the volume/sound levels are accommodating).
3. Participate in your school's Homecoming or Prom dance: This is an awesome way to not only engage buddy matches and families in a fun school-wide event, but also raise awareness about Best Buddies at your school.

I hope that you enjoyed learning more about the power and benefits of music. Feel free to comment below some ways music has played a role in your life. :)

In friendship,

Nathan Moldavsky

YLC Member, Wisconsin