Music Makes Memories, too…

Over the last few years I’ve fallen in love with playing the guitar. I like to play melody the best. That means picking each note, like a note on the piano. It takes a lot of practice—it doesn’t come easily to me. But music soothes me and lifts my spirits. And I’ve also learned that it brings healing.

For example, people with Alzheimer’s and dementia who play music experience positive changes in brain chemistry. It lifts their mood, and encourages them to engage in their world, and to be more aware and conversational. This article by CNN Health writer, Laura Klairmont, states, “Science does show us today that playing a musical instrument is like a full body workout for the brain.” Music Mends Minds is a nonprofit organization dedicated to create “musical support groups for patients with Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, traumatic brain injury, stroke, and PTSD.”

Musicians who play music in hospitals, as “Musicians on Call” do, can help instill a feeling of calm and well-being in sick patients. It is beneficial for both mental and physical health. It can also bring a sense of peace and calm and draw families together when a patient is in hospice.

I’m not a professional musician, but the articles inspire me to practice and improve my skills. One day, I’d like the music I play to be a blessing to others—even if it’s just for a small group of family at Christmas. Music makes memories.

On a related topic, music plays an important part in my upcoming new release, Ice Master. I have grown to love classical music over the last several years; it gives me a feeling of calm and peace. By a strange coincidence, Lee, the main character in the book, loves classical music, too. 🙂 I’ve included a playlist of songs on YouTube that are included in the book. In the ebook version, you can click on the link in the book at the time the music should be played. I hope you enjoy it.

In Ice Master, music helps bring healing not only to Lee, but also… Well, I can’t give away the surprise now, can I?
 

Musical Playlist for Ice Master

 

 
If you’re a musician, I hope you’ll think about using your talent to spread joy, and a sense of togetherness and healing with the people you love most. Or perhaps volunteer to play at a hospital with a group like “Musicians on Call.” One day, if I’m ever good enough, I would like to do the same.

Blessings,

Jennette