Distinguished minds in psychology and neurology, Prof. William Forde Thompson and Assoc. Prof. Gottfried Schlaug, highlights music’s extraordinary potential in treating neurological impairment.
In a Scientific American article, they share the inspiring journey of 11-year-old Laurel, who, post-stroke, struggled with communication due to severe brain damage. Melodic intonation therapy bridged the gap between hearing and speaking regions in her right brain, circumventing the damaged left-side pathways. After a 15-week treatment, Laurel transformed, articulating sentences of depth and complexity. In 2015, eight years post-accident, Laurel emerged as a motivational speaker for stroke survivors.
Dr. Masaru Emoto’s water crystal experiments, though debated, add a fascinating layer, suggesting music’s impact on water. Meanwhile, a study comparing classical and popular music by Prof. James O. Young underscores classical music’s precision and expressiveness. The symphony of science and art continues to unravel the healing potential of music in neurological recovery.
Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell
