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Human beings seem to be wired for music. Neurologists get some unique insights into that wiring when things go wrong, such as musical hallucinations. They can also use music therapeutically for conditions ranging from autism to stroke and Parkinson’s disease. Explore the meaning of music with one of the country’s foremost neurologists, Dr. Oliver Sacks.
Guest: Oliver Sacks, MD, is Professor of Neurology and Psychiatry at Columbia University Medical Center and has written ten books. The latest is Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain. Dr. Sacks has also been designated a Columbia University Artist. The photo of Dr. Sacks was taken by Elena Seibert. His Web site is www.oliversacks.com.
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I taught "Songs for Non-Singers" for more than 30 years. Non-singers who have spent a lifetime "not able to carry a tune in a bucket" can learn, absolutely, pretty much every single one. But I find they learn much better in a group of at least eight people. I could tune them in together like they were a radio signal.
I have a similar experience as the Dr. When I hear 'Singin' in the rain' I can think of nothing but the violent scene in A Clockwork Orange. And indeed, the movie itself is a study on this subject.
And with respect to the fetus, I would hum on my wife's belly to calm my son down and now that he is 3, I can gather him up and start to hum in his ear to calm him down!
This program was so affirming, and to hear the ideas direct from Dr. Sachs whose story became the truly memorable film, The Awakenings, was an honor for me.
My musical mother must have sung to me before my birth. I experience a legacy now, after her death, being unfolded daily during my deliberate focus upon the meaning of her life intertwined with mine.
She would always say she had this or that piece of music going on in her head (often Bach) which I didn't understand then. Now I tune into a 'sound track' for my life. It can be obsessive. To cope, my journaling practice has become the craft of songwriting - rhythms, melodies and lyrics. The rhythm (prosody) of a thought often sets off a "new song."
These connections have made life fuller, calmer, richer for me and family.
I am glad scientific attention is beginning to uncover these human qualities in so many. I hope it will lead to greater harmony among many. Thank you for the interview with dear Dr. Sachs.
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