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September 19, 2005

Making music: The key to healthy aging

Transcript Staff

September is Healthy Aging Month, an annual observance designed to focus attention on the positive aspects of growing older and to inspire adults older than 50 to improve their health. But what, one might ask, is its connection to Recreational Music Making?

"Music making is linked to a number of health benefits for older adults," said Dr. Suzanne Hanser, chair of the music therapy department at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. "Research shows that making music can lower blood pressure, decrease heart rate, reduce stress, and lessen anxiety and depression. There is also increasing evidence that making music enhances the immunological response, which enables us to fight viruses."

She said with all the benefits, it's no wonder many older Americans are sitting down at the piano or picking up their guitars, woodwinds, and horns ? they're discovering that making music is a perfect hobby for the empty nest and retirement years.

Hanser said it's a great way to meet new people, get exercise and challenge the mind, all off which lead to proven social, physical and psychological benefits. Group Recreational Music Making programs abound, such as Weekend Warriors, New Horizons, and HealthRHYTHMS, all sponsored by NAMM, the music manufacturers' association.

But what about those who've never played before, or who put down their instrument years ago, after high school or college?

Hanser said the philosophy of the Recreational Music Making movement is that anyone, regardless of age or ability, can make music and benefit from it.

For instance, Judy Murray of Winchester, Mass., took up violin at age 51. "I have miles to go with my learning," she laughs, "but each step is a pleasure."

Joyce Gast of Miami dusted off her French horn 15 years ago after retirement and joined a community band. "My standmate is 90 years old and still coming to every rehearsal," she said. "I hope to be playing like her at age 90."

Where can individuals learn more about Recreational Music Making? Making Music magazine is a one-stop resource for the recreational music maker.

With a mission to help older Americans get the most out of music, Making Music ? and its companion website www.makingmusicmag.com ? features the latest news about music making and health, inspirational stories, instruction for beginner and intermediate players, product and book resources and much more.

"People are not only living longer these days, they want to remain healthy and active for as long as possible," said Making Music's editor-in-chief Antoinette Follett.

"Plus, there is an increasing focus in the medical community on the need to keep the brain as healthy as the body. This focus is as much about making the empty nest and retirement years fun and worthwhile as it is about preventing debilitating dementias such as Alzheimer's disease. Music making has the potential to do both."

Making Music magazine ? a resource for recreational musicians offering information, instruction and inspiration ? is published six times a year.

For more information and a free one-year subscription, call (800) 724-9700 x101 or visit www.makingmusicmag.com/concir.

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