Musical Distraction or Help?

Ludwig Van Beethoven composed music for many reasons, a personal stress reliever for himself, and for the others enjoyment. Could these beautifully, and well written pieces of classical music also contribute to a more focused mind? An article from healthcare.net believes that classical music does help with focus, but another article from science daily objects with this thought.

Could classical music really help with studying? An article from healthcare.net believes it does. "A study has confirmed that listening to classical music while studying will improve memory, increase concentration, and helps give a soothing background noise. Classical music is also a natural way to increase energy and keep you alert." (http://www.healthcarecolleges.net/blog/music-can-help-you-study/) According to this site, listening to Mozart, Beethoven, or Bach can help give a person a better understanding of their educational studies, and develop a stronger memory.

Others believe classical music does not help with studying, or memory. "Scientists have debated and tested, for over 15 years, on the topic of classical music bringing a performance enhancer when it comes to studying, and other educational based activities." (http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/05/100510075415.htm) The University of Vienna has researched this topic very thoroughly. They have come to the conclusion that classical music does not enhance studying, or memory progress.

ScienceDaily.com states that listening to classical music is not a helpful way to study, but healthcare.net is adamant that listening to classical music is a educational performance enhancer. This is the biggest difference between the two articles. ScienceDaily.com has run many tests, and done research on the topic of classical music actually giving a person educational gain. healthcare.net has also conducted studies on the myth. They have come to the conclusion that classical music is beneficial to the mind.

Both sources however agree that classical music is worth listening to. Quoted from ScienceDaily: "I recommend listening to Mozart or Beethoven to everyone."(http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/05/100510075415.htm) A quote from Healthcare: "Mozart is the best music to study to."

Classical music is very relaxing and great to listen to, but I do not believe it is the best to study with. From personal experience, music is more of a distraction, not a help, but I also agree that classical music is worth listening to.


Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/puresheetmusic/5651609046/lightbox/