Music as Medicine: How We Can Harness Its Therapeutic Power

We are only just beginning to appreciate the healing power of music on our minds and bodies. Here, a neuroscientist and celebrated musician introduces a bold new paradigm for medical treatment. From explaining how `rhythmic auditory stimulation' can fight multiple sclerosis, to examining why Tracy Chapman's songs might just help cure PTSD, Professor Daniel Levitin explores how each of us can use music to calm our thoughts, repair our memories and heal our deepest psychological wounds. The result is both a surprising tour through the science of music, and a joyful celebration of humanity's oldest obsession.

The Instant Sunday Times Bestseller
A Financial Times, Telegraph and Waterstones Book of the Year
Shortlisted for the Royal Society Science Book Prize

What if music holds the key to healing our minds and bodies? Music as Medicine is the revelatory new book from the million-copy bestselling author of The Organized Mind.

'Fascinating' OBSERVER
'Essential' WALL STREET JOURNAL
‘Intriguing’ GUARDIAN

Can listening to music boost our cognitive function?
Do pop songs hold the key to treating Parkinson's and Alzheimer's?
And why might Tracy Chapman's 'Fast Car' help cure PTSD?

'Levitin presents a strong, evidence-based case for how music heals, alleviating pain, reducing anxiety and even aiding recovery from strokes or Parkinson’s. It’s a compelling blend of anecdote and rigorous science, revealing in detail how music harnesses the brain.' Books of the Year, FINANCIAL TIMES

'For many years I have wondered why a bunch of frequencies organised into a piece of music has the ability, even without words, to make the listener cry and become emotional. Although I know this happens to me and many people, I have often wondered how this can be. Dr Levitin, in this latest book, Music as Medicine, has some fascinating insights into this great phenomenon.' PAUL MCCARTNEY