It’s not what you typically talk about when you discuss music tastes, and it doesn’t usually make the cut for your day-to-day conversation. However, your favorite movies wouldn’t be the same without it. What is it? Classical (or instrumental) music. I’m going to convince you today of why it is extremely underrated. 

Over the past six days leading up to the release of Taylor Swift’s new album (which is already released by the time this is published), I have been music fasting, which for me, consists of only listening to classical and Christian music. (I would allow myself to also listen to podcasts, but that has yet to happen.) After conducting this experiment, I have discovered that my mood has changed entirely. I have found that overall, my mental headspace has been much clearer and lighter. This experiment is only another piece of evidence to prove its superiority, and this is backed by writer Rosie Pentreath, who wrote for the “Classical fM.” In the article, Pentreath discusses the 10 benefits of classical music, two of the points being “boosting mental being” and “reducing stress.” 

During Covid, the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra conducted a study on the mental response that people had to orchestral music. In the study, 35 percent of responders said that the music helped boost their mood and lower their stress levels. In a separate article, the Des Moines Symphony states that the detailed compositions have been found to enhance memory, creativity and concentration. The rhythms of the music are also found to activate the parasympathetic system, leading to muscle relaxation, and they lower cortisol levels, a stress-inducing hormone. 

In addition to boosting mood and lowering stress, the melodies of classical tunes also promote better sleep quality. This includes falling asleep more quickly and waking up less frequently in the night.  

Now that you know the benefits of classical music, I’m curious to see what you’re listening to next!