Music and the Black Dog

The Very Rev Dr John Chalmers in his contribution to the October Life and Work wrote on the impact of depression on the spirit, the black dog. In particular, he referred to the ‘soothing, healing, renewing power of music’ and its eff ect on curing the tormented soul of Saul.

This reminded me of the words of Hans Christian Andersen in his fairy tale ‘What the Moon Saw’ – ‘When words fail, sounds can often speak’. Experience and research have illustrated that music can assist us in soothing and healing when other kinds of communication are unable to provide help. I believe that the violin has a particular power to sooth those who are troubled and distressed. However, musical preference can vary widely among individuals and thus it is for each person to decide what they like and what is appropriate for each mood. We know that David’s harp caused evil spirits to flee from causing pain to Saul [1 Sam 16.23].

There are a number of other biblical references referring to the power of music. David, for example, composed a Psalm, which refers to songs of deliverance:

[Psalm 32.7]. The Holy Spirit came upon Elisha after a musician started playing [2 Kings 3.15]. Paul and Silas prayed and sang praises in prison and God sent an earthquake to free them [Acts 16.25-26].

Dr Chalmers observed that music does not assist with everyone’s depression. That is clearly correct. However, it is clear research has shown that music can not only improve mood and battle depression for many, but also act as a balm for stroke and Alzheimer’s condition, and can also improve surgical outcomes.