Abstract

The research strands of recent decades show how music has an impact on various medical specialities. The scientific corpus is very broad and includes randomised clinical trials, mixed methods and mechanistic research in the field of neuroscience examining psychosocial and physiological responses to specific musical interventions. The literature has shown how different musical techniques can be used with benefit in various clinical settings, e.g. in cancer and postoperative pain, during labour and delivery, and in all situations where it is appropriate to counter depression and anxiety including end-of-life and bereavement. In addition to being a life companion for well-being and longevity, music has assumed an important therapeutic role in dementia, neurological rehabilitation, and in childhood neuropsychiatric illnesses such as autism and schizophrenia. Involvement in music also plays a key role in building social bonds between individuals and groups, which in turn promote health and well-being