When we listen to music, multiple areas of the brain are activated, including those associated with movement, planning, attention and memory. It also changes our brain chemistry. Listening to music we like stimulates the release of dopamine which makes us feel gratified. Who hasn't found it easier to run a little further or work a little faster to keep up with the pace of the music we're listening to? All that jumping and moving to the beat of the music, which we call dancing, increases our level of attention, the release of endorphins and helps burn stress. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Sometimes, though, we question the value of music for academic and work performance. Is there a parent who hasn't talked to their teenager about trying to study while listening to music? Research has shown that children who learn a musical instrument often perform better academically in school, especially in science, mathematics to the beat of the music we are listening to? All that jumping and moving to the beat of the music, which we call dancing, increases our level of attention, the release of endorphins and helps burn stress. Sometimes, however, we question the value of music for academic and work performance. Is there a parent who hasn't talked to their teenager about trying to study while listening to music? Research has shown that children who learn a musical instrument often perform better academically in school, especially in science, mathematics and literature, are more focused, have greater self-esteem and coordination. The impact of music and brain functioning are being studied in those areas where the brain has been damaged due to injury or disease. Many thanks to everyone who brought to my attention the recent Catalyst program which beautifully explored this in relation to those suffering from dementia or Parkinson's disease. Elsewhere, “Singing for the Brain” groups have been active for some time in several countries. Here those living with dementia and their careers come together to sing together and, although the power of conversation and language may have been lost, memories of the songs immediately come back to mind. The Catalyst program on ABC revealed how playlists are personalized. being trialled to help people with dementia reconnect with themselves and how music can help unlock bodies blocked by movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease. Music also helps those who suffer from stuttering, as brilliantly depicted in the film “The King's Speech”. When we listen to music, multiple areas of the brain are activated, including those associated with movement, planning, attention and memory. It also changes our brain chemistry. Listening to music we like stimulates the release of dopamine which makes us feel gratified. If music can affect your mood, your ability to concentrate and stay on task, should we all be working while listening to it? Relaxing while listening to calm, relaxing music can help relieve anxiety, which for stressed students or high-intensity workers could prove beneficial in reducing stress levels and emotions to improve concentration and attention. Personally, the thought of having to work in a place like shops/hairdressers or supermarkets where music is played that you have no control over the selection makes me want to run away. Others may not care,.