Music has been used as a healing force for centuries. Music therapy goes back to biblical times, when David played the harp to rid King Saul of a bad spirit. As early as 400 B.C., Hippocrates, Greek father of medicine, played music for his mental patients. Aristotle described music as a force that purified the emotions. In the thirteenth century, Arab hospitals contained music-rooms for the benefit of the patients. In the United States, Native American medicine men often employed chants and dances as a method of healing patients. Music therapy as we know it began in the aftermath of World Wars I and II. Musicians would travel to hospitals, particularly in the United Kingdom, and play music for soldiers suffering from war-related emotional and physical trauma.
Joe
The Closet Professor 
December 15th, 2011 at 5:00 pm
Music — good for the listner and for the performer as well. I play the piano for personal enjoyment, (although I do not look as attractive as the performer in the photo above. He come and play my baby grand anytime he wants!Music is a wonderful release from the frustrations of the day. I have a friend who has played the violin at the local hospice and hospital. Her music does have a direct effect – those in the hospital who have responded to no other theraphy smile and hum/sing along with her on familiar songs. Those in hospice respond with calmness as do their families.An insightful post here today, Joeblow! Thanks!!!
December 15th, 2011 at 6:31 pm
I love music of all types, and no matter my mood, listening to something always makes me feel even better. And can I please play HIS keys? I want to play something in A Major on his horn!Peace <3Jay
December 15th, 2011 at 6:47 pm
Me, I play the skin flute… lol
December 17th, 2011 at 11:05 pm
I have a sudden urge to buy a piano so he can tune me… er… the piano.
December 18th, 2011 at 8:27 pm
I like to play piano !