Scientific research shows that music tends to have positive effects on the mental health of human beings. Feelings of depression are caused by low levels of the brain neurotransmitter Serotonin. When Serotonin levels dip, feelings of sluggishness, gloom or inadequacy tend to cloud the mind. Soft and soothing genres of music have been found to alleviate depression by helping to raise Serotonin production in the brain. Music can also reduce anxiety and restlessness. Studies show that flat musical notes help sooth the mind, minimizing general feelings of anxiety and nervousness.
Research indicates that music can affect learning and thinking capabilities. Soothing or pleasant music can help listeners think and analyze things more efficiently. The music itself does not make the listener smarter. However, it does have the potential to foster a positive attitude and provide motivation. These factors allow for improved thinking and learning conditions.
Listening to music can have a positive effect on one's concentration level. Silences or brief pauses between musical notes have been proven to trigger brain cells and neurons, which are responsible for short-term concentration and memory. Music also has the ability to enhance creativity by directly affecting the right side of the brain.
According to neurobiologist Norman Weinberger in an article in Psychology Today, scientific studies offer evidence that suggest "long-term musical involvement reaps cognitive rewards." Specifically, involvement with music can enhance language and reasoning skills while boosting social adjustment. Scientists believe music "exercises the brain" by rapidly activating different brain systems simultaneously. When a person plays the piano, for instance, she invokes several different processes at once. Seeing, hearing, touching, motor planning and symbol interpretation are all tasks the brain must juggle when you play the piano.