Music has always been an integral part of human culture, from soothing infants at nap time to the final notes of an orchestral concert – music can help us form connections between people.

But what is it exactly that makes music special? Neuroscientists, psychologists and anthropologists continue to investigate why so many people love music.

It is a form of communication

Music is an indispensable form of expression, enabling individuals to connect across language barriers to express emotions, intentions, and meaning. Music also contributes to our collective culture by reflecting values that help reconcile difference among cultures while sparking ideals that support humanity’s collective quest for world peace.

Musical sounds can convey all sorts of information, from the familiar ringing of a cell phone (someone is calling) to ambulance sirens or doorbells; bugles and musical instruments like bugles can send long distance messages; while specific songs or pieces of music may convey emotional states like joy or sadness.

Music can have many practical applications, from increasing physical performance during exercise and encouraging relaxation to impacting customer satisfaction at restaurants or purchase decisions. Music also serves as an engaging social interaction tool in situations such as weddings and funerals.

It is a form of entertainment

Music is an art that involves the arrangement of sounds according to rules of rhythm, melody and harmony. This art form may be created using vocal or instrumental instruments; composed electronically; or even spontaneously performed by people.

Musical activity exists across cultures, from folk songs to full orchestral works. Some theories of music highlight its relationship to other human activities like language and drama while others highlight our inherent musicality as individuals.

Music can have an immense effect on our emotions and is used to express everything from love and anger, to tradition or social change. Its global appeal has made music an effective means for advancing egalitarian values and loosening sexual mores; most of us are likely familiar with its music already and its soothing soundscape can serve as both relaxation and meditation tool.

It is a form of learning

Music is an effective form of learning that can help people express themselves and express their emotions, develop teamwork and leadership skills, as well as creating an incredible sense of achievement. Studies have even demonstrated that children who play musical instruments tend to perform better in school.

The elements of music include melody, harmony, rhythm and tone/timbre. These components are fundamental for creating and conveying emotion through music, and form the basis of musical theory. As musicians perform live they often compose new pieces on-stage while others memorize pieces created by others or memorize songs or pieces created elsewhere; certain cultures even boast rigorous formal training that can take years to master.

Music has long been used as part of rituals, ceremonies and religious services. Additionally, it serves as a vehicle for political activism and social change campaigns, while being an essential element of human culture and providing both therapeutic and relaxing benefits for people of all ages.

It is a form of relaxation

Be it listening to piano concertos or nature sounds, music can help reduce stress by activating pleasure centers in the brain and releasing dopamine. Furthermore, music may help decrease cortisol, an associated stress hormone. Studies have also proven that listening to relaxing music can enhance mood while decreasing blood pressure.

Exploring various genres and styles of music is an excellent way to discover what resonates most with you. Your journey might begin with classical or world music, but over time you might discover new instruments and melodies that help relax you.

While music can have an immediate positive effect on stress and well-being, studies of its long-term effects are necessary to understand its influence on individual characteristics and contexts. Furthermore, the tempo and rhythm of your chosen tune will have an effect on relaxation responses; slower music tends to be more relaxing.