Written by Online therapist Dr. Gloria Vanderhorst, Ph.D.

MUSIC

Emotion, Memory, and the Case for Classroom Harmony

Music isn’t just entertainment—it’s nourishment. For individuals in Maryland and DC, this reflection explores how music shapes emotional wellbeing, cognitive function, and why its presence in schools is essential, not optional.

Our souls respond to music. The endless variety lets people find the tunes and rhythms that touch them deeply. We were born with an attraction to music. Some mothers-to-be even place headsets on their abdomens so their unborn babies can experience music. Within the brain, receptors for music are found throughout, and our music memory is truly stable. People with Alzheimer’s and other debilitating brain disorders still have memories of music, especially early nursery rhyme tunes.

I love a variety of music. I will spend money to hear a harpsichordist play. I have a Sonos playlist of classical music. I know all the lyrics to country songs from the ’60s, and when I was a teen, I also memorized every Beatles song. Of course, there are hymns that I know from church. I avoid heavy metal. Apologies to all of the heavy metal fans out there.

The point is that every one of us is musical. We come preprogrammed to seek out music and experience its nurturing qualities. Sit outside on a warm summer day and close your eyes—the music of nature or the music of the streets is all around you. Take a breath. Let the music settle around you. Pay attention to how your body responds. You were born to attend to and absorb music. Take time to experience the sounds around you.

Given the critical nature of music, why are our public schools systematically removing music from the curriculum? They claim that the cuts are necessary to meet the budget. I do appreciate that budget cuts require change. Yet, looking at the importance of music in our lives, I believe that finding ways to integrate music into the classroom is essential. Okay, the school saves money by not hiring the music teacher and not having instruments that students use. Of course, sheet music costs can mount up, but the choice to eliminate music is wrong.

Classrooms can find a way to integrate music into the curriculum. Playing music during an exam can calm a student’s anxiety and help the brain find information stored away. Incorporating music into the lecture can increase motivation and reduce anxiety. Inviting students to bring their instruments to play for the class can build confidence and appreciation for the skill and dedication necessary to master an instrument. Sitting on the playground, we notice the music of the world around us, which has value.

Are you still sitting outside? Have you noticed that your breathing and heart rate have changed? Music encourages the release of neurotransmitters that affect memory and emotion. The release of dopamine can regulate emotion, resulting in a reduction in anxiety as a sort of built-in mood regulator. Every student will benefit from that.

Want to explore how music supports emotional wellbeing and education? Visit Neuroscience News’ guide to music and student wellbeing, EducationHQ’s reflections on music as a wellbeing strategy, and Music Will’s insights on music education and mental health.

If you’re reflecting on emotional regulation, creativity, or educational equity, therapy can help. Learn more about individual therapy in Maryland and DC or explore therapeutic approaches that support insight, healing, and harmony.