I’ve always enjoyed music. From the time I was little, you could find me singing along to music on the radio, singing in church or the car, dancing and singing along to music in my room, and enjoying music wherever I could. Even now, many years later, if I’m at home alone, cleaning my house, exercising, or cooking — music is most likely playing.
I have a very eclectic taste. I listen to it all depending on my mood for the day. But recently I stumbled across a genre of music I was unfamiliar with; a style I’ve never made an attempt to break into or appreciate. Ladies and gentlemen, I found instrumental music.
You heard me. Instrumental. That’s right — NO WORDS.
What? Why?
Let me tell you how it started. The day I started listening was a very busy day at work. I had several large projects already on my list and had another added that morning. I needed to buckle down and start cranking out some products. It was so quiet, but all I could focus on was the sound of my air conditioner running. As I often did, I put on some music and tried to get to work. The words of the songs playing sucked me in and were all I could focus on. So, on a whim, I searched “instrumental music for work.” I was amazed by all the choices. Pressing, play I got to work.
I found myself jamming along to a variety of music. Upbeat toe tappers, some slower tunes, and even some melodic melodies. Hours ticked by. My work got done and the music just kept playing. I found the tunes enabled me to focus and feel energized, but not invade my thought process as I worked through my projects.
I was so productive that day! So, I took some time to dig into instrumental music. Turns out, research shows instrumental music can be hugely beneficial to your brain. Listening to instrumental music has been shown to positively affect your brain, improve cognitive ability, help you solve complex problems, and assist in critical reasoning. Apparently, it’s good for the mind and soul and I think I’m hooked.
I think I’ve found a new option for my workday tunes! Who knew there were so many options?
I’m just breaking into this genre, but here are a few of my new favorites:
- Jim Brickman – Pianist who writes and plays his own music, as well as covers well-known classics.
- George Winston – Pianist who writes and plays music for all seasons.
- Matchstick Piano Man – Pianist writing and playing a variety of music.
- 2Cellos – Cello covers of known music.
- Lindsay Sterling – violinist writing and playing a variety of upbeat tunes.
- Audiosphere – Variety of instruments playing upbeat tunes.
- Flying Fingers – Piano covers of radio tunes.
- Andy Angel – Guitar covers of known music.
- INST – Variety of instruments and good beats.
Instrumental music isn’t just for your parents anymore! If you’ve got a big day planned at work or maybe just need an energizing option while working at home, I highly suggest checking out a few of these suggestions. You may just discover a new love. And you might just be doing your brain a favor at the same time.
