Music as Therapy
In this blog we explore the true nature of art, its connection to well being, and how The Smiling Sessions taps into this wondrous power.
In our previous blog, we delved into the profound issue of loneliness and social isolation, highlighting the detrimental impact it can have on individuals and communities alike. We explored the causes behind this lack of community and emotional connection, underscoring the need for mediums that facilitate shared experiences and foster bonds between people. In this article, we will explore the transformative power of art, with a particular focus on music, in serving as a therapeutic tool that brings people together. After all, countless studies have demonstrated the connection between musical experiences and social well being.
The Therapeutic Mission of Art
What is the purpose of art? In our modern society, there is a distinct agreement in the value of art, yet we often perceive it solely as an end in itself. However, it is crucial not to lose sight of the fundamental reasons that led us to admire art in the first place.
One profound perspective on the purpose of art comes from the philosopher Hegel, who saw it as a powerful means for individuals to express and explore their emotions. According to Hegel, “art is the sensuous presentation of ideas,” where it communicates the inner life of the spirit through external, sensory means. In other words, art allows us to perceive and contemplate universal truths by experiencing them through the particular, lifting our minds above the mundane aspects of existence. Through this process, individuals can connect with deeper aspects of themselves and the collective human experience, fostering a greater sense of empathy and understanding.
Taking a slightly different approach, Schopenhauer believed that art enables us to transcend the ordinary and connect with the universal essence of existence. Both Hegel and Schopenhauer converge on the idea that art, including music, holds a profound therapeutic mission that can heal and unify. Through art, we can access a realm beyond the confines of everyday life, tapping into emotions and thoughts that might otherwise remain unexpressed or unnoticed. This therapeutic aspect of art not only benefits the individual but also contributes to a sense of collective cohesion and shared humanity.
Throughout history, the healing and unifying influence of music has woven a profound tapestry across diverse cultures and epochs. Its significance extends far beyond mere entertainment, as music has consistently been harnessed to forge bonds among people and foster a sense of community.
It has assumed a pivotal role in various social gatherings, where participation is at the heart of the experience. Folk dances, religious ceremonies, and community celebrations embrace music as a central element, encouraging active engagement from all members. Through the act of singing, dancing, and making music together, people strengthened their bonds and solidified their sense of belonging to a larger collective.
The Historical Roots of Music as Therapy
Throughout history, the healing and unifying influence of music has woven a profound tapestry across diverse cultures and epochs. Its significance extends far beyond mere entertainment, as music has consistently been harnessed to forge bonds among people and foster a sense of community.
It has assumed a pivotal role in various social gatherings, where participation is at the heart of the experience. Folk dances, religious ceremonies, and community celebrations embrace music as a central element, encouraging active engagement from all members. Through the act of singing, dancing, and making music together, people strengthened their bonds and solidified their sense of belonging to a larger collective.
The participatory nature of music allows individuals to communicate and express emotions collectively, fostering empathy and understanding. It acts as a universal language that transcends words and enables people to connect at a profound level. This shared emotional experience binds communities together, creating a strong social fabric that supports individuals through life’s joys and challenges.
The Smiling Sessions
The Smiling Sessions exemplify the transformative power of music as therapy. These sessions bring live musicians into care homes, where they perform for elderly residents, encouraging them to sing along. The results have been heartwarming and profound, providing a testament to the therapeutic and social connection qualities of music.
At a session in Heavitree Court, a touching moment unfolded when a regular participant connected deeply with the song “Secret Love” from the songbook. She bravely stood up and emotionally shared that the song held significant meaning for her and her late lover. Her heartfelt expression of love and loss resonated with the group, and she requested to sing the song with the Smiling musicians in front of everyone present. The atmosphere was filled with empathy and understanding, and the music provided a channel for her to process her emotions within the supportive community.
Another heartening example comes from the Genesis housing association, who spoke about how The Smiling Sessions had a profound impact on those who were typically reluctant to engage in social activities. They described “What we have found is that customers who never normally engage with social activities have taken part in this project. There are a number of reasons for this which includes, they found it fun, they remembered the songs of old, they felt part of a group without having to directly talk to people.”
The shared medium of old songs evoked nostalgia and a sense of commonality among the participants, fostering a feeling of belonging without the pressure to directly interact with others. By utilizing music as a catalyst, the sessions effortlessly bridged gaps and allowed individuals to connect on a deeper level.
Music’s therapeutic qualities have an extraordinary ability to transcend barriers and build social connections. As seen in the The Smiling Sessions, music serves as a bridge that unites hearts and minds, empowering individuals to express their emotions and fostering a profound sense of community. In our next blog, we will delve into the formula of The Smiling Sessions.