How does playing the guitar link to science
- Joshika, Upper V
There are a variety of different and complex instruments. The guitar is seen to have an effect on the human mind and has a particular association to physics as to how this instrument produces certain sounds.
The health benefits of playing guitar have been proven by multiple studies. One study conducted by ‘McGill University’ talks about the release of dopamine when playing an instrument. Dopamine is a chemical in the brain and is used by the nervous system. This neurotransmitter improves mood and provides motivation amongst many other things. The strumming of an instrument also reduces the impact of stress, inducing multiple health boosts. Whilst immersed in the sound of its musical rhythms, the mind focuses its negative emotion towards something more positive and enjoyable. Thus a reduction in stress can provide many major health benefits as it slows down heart rate, therefore lowering blood pressure, whilst improving mental health.
The learning and mastering of an instrument also impacts cognitive development, the acquiring of knowledge of skills, especially when implemented at a younger age. This can improve performance in other subjects such as mathematics, which has been proven by multiple studies with several instruments. In one study it showed that the students who received their academic lesson after having instrumental lessons, had an improved test mark by 27% due to better concentration.
The physics behind the guitar is specific due to this 6 stringed instrument’s vibrations. The strum of a string produces several ‘standing’ waves, which influence pitch. A standing wave is when some points in the wave remain fixed, whilst others oscillate. However, complex waves called overtones with multiple frequencies, form a rich sound. A range of sounds can be produced, depending on its fret position, due to multiple overtones. There are 4 main elements which affect the vibrations of a string; length, tension, thickness and density of a string. The way the string is played affects the pitch. A quick vibration releases sound compressions which are close together, in turn creating a high pitch sound. A slow vibration releases sound compressions that are further away, resulting in a low pitch sound.
In conclusion, a guitar links to science via its various health benefits and sound complexity as it produces multiple sound waves and is shown to reduce stress and instigates relief and relaxation due to its calming and melodious tones.
