Intellect

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Authors:  Michael J. Lowis 
DOI: 10.1386/jaah.1.1.81/1

Keywords
music emotion peak experiences spiritual experiment

Abstract
The paper firstly reviews four studies on the power of music to generate emotional responses in the listener. Using scientific methodology, the research comprised experiments with sacred versus secular music, the effect of different modes and rhythms in hymn tunes, music and task performance, and the respective influences of nature and nurture on musical ability. Secondly, the paper describes the five phases of a research programme to assess the frequency and nature of peak emotional experiences generated through listening to music. This study made use of surveys, laboratory experiments and EEG measurements in its investigation. Whilst the combined outcomes add to the knowledge and understanding of the role of music, many opportunities for further work remain.