The Mozart Effect

Brian Lee

Dr. Carolyn Quin

Music Appreciation 23379

22 April 2011

When I study, read or do anything that requires mental concentration, I prefer not to listen to music. My mind is prone to shifting focus from my thoughts to the various aspects of the song that I am listening to, such as the beat, melody or lyrics. This is especially true in the case of genres that are rhythmically lively, such as hip-hop or rock music. However, the one exception to this generalization is classical music and Mozart’s music is a prime example this.

As mentioned, the reason why I usually find it difficult to mentally concentrate when I listen to music is because my attention often shifts to the song. If I listen to a Pop song, my attention will be distracted by the ‘catchy’, repetitive melody. If I listen to a techno song, I will end up focusing on the lively beat. However, music from the Classical period, which developed in reaction to the florid style of the late Baroque era, tends to be subtler and as a result it effectively functions as good background music. Instead of complex polyphonies, composers from the Classical era preferred a more simplistic style, mainly utilizing homophony where they would layer a main melody over a textured accompaniment. These traits and the general ethos of moderation characteristic of the Classical era are all to be found in Mozart’s work. So when listening to Mozart’s pieces, the subtlety and modesty of the melodies do not interrupt my focus.

Yet, while not intruding upon my concentration, Mozart’s music has the further effect of actually helping me to focus and stay on task. Mozart was a very versatile composer. He produced many pieces in a wide range of genres. For instance, he composed music for Church masses, symphonies, concertos and even operas. Now, since Mozart was such a versatile composer and musician, his work in these various genres had the effect of spilling over across boundaries and influencing each other....