Music is an especially important part of our lives. We listen to it at home, in cars and even in some elevators, but do we really take time in our busy lives to appreciate the joys of classical music? From the serene calm of Chopin’s Nocturne Op.9 No.2 to the thrill and excitement of Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata third movement, there is something for everyone. If the variety of incredible music is not enough to convince you, there are hidden benefits of listening to this genre of music. 

 

First, listening to classical music can decrease blood pressure. Blood pressure causes many life-threatening health conditions like heart disease, heart attacks and strokes. Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, the heart attack death rate has doubled. Healthy lifestyle choices alongside some classical music can help avoid this such diseases. A study conducted by Oxford University found that the participants who listened to classical music for 25 minutes had their blood pressure lowered substantially. This is due to the lack of lyrics, changes in volume and rhythm as well as harmonies that are not too exciting. These conditions are met by a multitude of classical pieces, unlike many pop songs which do not even meet the first condition. 

 

Second, listening to classical music can decrease stress levels. In a world where our jobs can even reach employees at their homes, stress levels are higher than ever. Not only adults, but students too. Students are more stressed than ever right now and classical music can help whilst reducing stress. Classical music lowers cortisol levels in the body according to a study conducted. Moreover, students can benefit when studying as well. The ‘Mozart effect’ is the effect of listening to Mozart when studying. Researches have shown that students who listened to Mozart when studying, increased their IQ slowly. It also improves focus, so whilst revising classical music can be especially useful. 

 

Finally, and most importantly, listening to classical music is a pleasurable experience. It can be calming, exciting, moving etcetera. The joys of classical music are enriching and limitless. From each era, there is a plethora of musical geniuses with their own style of music. There are also many pieces for a variety of instruments, each instrument bringing a varying tone to each piece. Therefore, go and experience the joys of classical music.