It has long been felt that music has the power to heal, and the latest studies in neuroscience and brain imaging are proving this to be true. Research shows that listening to positive music reduces anxiety, depression and pain. It can also improve cognitive functions like memory, learning, concentration and the effects of aging. Other studies confirm that playing and singing uplifting music with others increases feelings of connectedness, trust, and social bonding. The only caveat is that for music to promote all of these wonderful effects it needs to have a coherent melody. Brain scans show that songs which are discordant (like acid rock and punk) actually have a negative effect on the parts of the brain that are associated with mood, stress and wellness. The same is true for songs with negative lyrics, as in misogynist rap songs. This makes sense because music has a mathematical structure which stimulates the entire brain. So if the music is melodic and uplifting, it will naturally stimulate that same type of energy in your brain and body. It does not matter if you listen to Vivaldi or the Beatles, as long as the music is beautiful and positive.