For its adherents, music therapy is an effective part of treatment for a range of ailments from addiction to cancer. And the link between sound healing and music therapy will be tested live in a unique collaboration between internationally renowned sarod players Amaan Ali Bangash and Ayaan Ali Bangash and C.K. Birla Hospital for Women, where the musicians will be performing later this month.
At the concert, the siblings will also talk about the therapeutic powers of music to relieve not only stress and anxiety but also benefit patients and ensure a relaxed healing process.
While this kind of a collaboration isn’t new in the healthcare sector, with the Delhi government recently having launched dance therapy for patients at government hospitals, Avanti Birla, founder of the C.K. Birla Hospital for Women, said, “This series will help us establish the connection between the power of music, rhythm and beats and healing.”
“According to various studies, music evokes emotional responses that help people/patients relax and heal faster. This programme is aimed at our cancer patients as it is known that music therapy can reduce pain, anxiety and even help invasive procedures during cancer treatment. It can improve medical outcomes as well,” Ms. Birla added.
The idea of music as a healing influence finds mention in the writings of Aristotle and Plato. In the 20th century, it became part of hospital routine when musicians — both amateur and professional — began playing for the war wounded after the two World Wars, seeking to relieve emotional trauma of the conflicts.
Abhay Rustum Sopori, internationally known santoor maestro and music composer, says that while offering music therapy, it’s important to remember that sound is the active ingredient, while music is the capsule to deliver this therapy. “This form of healing is a science in itself but there is no denying that classical music has a very deep and positive impact on wellness,” he said.
“Music has always been an integral part of our lives. It refreshes and soothes the soul and also reduces stress. We are delighted to collaborate with the hospital,” said a statement issued by Amaan Ali Bangash and Ayaan Ali Bangash said.
