Music has long been known to stimulate the brain and increase focus. If you’re studying for a test or working on homework, finding suitable music to help focus can be invaluable.
One popular genre of music is ambient. This type of music can range from chill to lively and has a soothing aura that helps increase concentration levels.
Modern Electronic
Unlike earlier musical instruments, electronic devices allow for a more improvisational and experimental approach to music-making. As a result, the genre of electronic music emerged at the turn of the 20th century and subsequently developed into a large variety of musical styles.
The first recorded electronic music was made in the early 1900s and involved the use of electromechanical equipment, such as trautonium (an early electronic synthesizer) or the theremin. Other examples include the reverberating effects of the ondes Martenot (an early electronic instrument), the tape recorder, and the early computer.
In the early 1950s the development of the electronic tape recorder led to a surge in interest in electronic music. Composers were fascinated by the possibilities of tape as a musical medium and the fact that electronic sounds could be made to sound like other kinds of sounds. In the United States in particular, a small number of composers, led by Otto Luening and Vladimir Ussachevsky, began to develop a professional tape studio and to compose works illustrating the possibilities of the medium. These efforts were eventually joined by Milton Babbitt and became the Columbia-Princeton Electronic Music Center, one of the most important centers for the study of electronic music in the United States.
Some of the most popular pieces of electronic music for focus involve electronic tapes, or recordings of audio that have been edited and modified using various electronic processing techniques, such as modulation, reverberation, and filtering. These sounds can then be played back on loudspeakers or played back through other sound sources, such as an instrumental ensemble, in a live performance.
Modern electronic music can be categorized in more than 300 subgenres, many of which involve a specific technique or style. These subgenres include:
Bass House & Future House
This genre is a combination of hip-hop and trap and has an emphasis on experimenting with 808’s, interesting samples, and layering. It has a wide range of influences and can range from super chill to neo-trap.
DJ Shadow is a renowned example of this genre and is known for his supersaw focus, while artists like Soulection have pushed this music over the years.
Classical
Classical music has been proven to enhance concentration. Studies have even linked it to mood enhancement, increased productivity and reduced stress levels. So whether you’re studying for an exam or just getting started on a new project, classical music will help keep you focused and productive.
One study discovered that listening to Mozart can improve spatial temporal reasoning performance. Furthermore, older adults who listened to classical music performed better on memory and processing tasks.
Music that is instrumental often helps to reduce distractions caused by lyrics, and can even enhance cognitive performance by increasing alpha brain waves that promote relaxation.
Many composers have begun incorporating electronic elements into their works, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down. Valgeir Sigurdsson’s latest album ‘Dissonance’ showcases traditional orchestral instruments alongside modern electronic components for an exciting take on contemporary music.
Another type of music that can help with concentration is nature sounds. These soothing soundscapes may even be beneficial for those who struggle with insomnia.
You can find music of this genre on various websites and it can be played either with headphones or in a studio. Furthermore, Spotify features several playlists featuring this music genre.
Crafting your own playlist with music you enjoy listening to can help you stay focused on work. Utilizing an app on your phone is an ideal way to craft personalized playlists tailored specifically for you.
Finding the ideal focus music requires finding songs that will inspire and keep you focused. Selecting music in major keys is ideal, as this encourages your mind to work faster and enhances cognitive performance overall.
It’s wise to select a song with minimal “salient moments.” These are sounds or groups of sounds that stand out from the rest of the music; for instance, the opening line disrupts the flow and shifts focus elsewhere in the melody.
Ambient
Ambient music can be the perfect tool to help focus, whether you’re working in a noisy office, studying for your dissertation deadline, or simply finishing readings at home. Nature sounds, orchestral pieces and downtempo beats all provide soothing atmospheres that will allow you to focus without getting distracted by other activities around you.
Ambient music has no clear-cut genre, but it typically follows some basic themes and styles. It combines elements of electronica, new age, and modern classical music but emphasizes tone and atmosphere over traditional structure or rhythm. Ambient often features drones, subtle textures, as well as incorporation of environmental sounds for a calming atmosphere.
Brian Eno’s Ambient 1 album in the late 1970s revolutionized ambient music forever, becoming an international genre with influence from artists such as Steve Reich, Terry Riley, Philip Glass and John Cage.
Science Daily reports that listening to ambient music can help reduce stress and anxiety levels, improve productivity, boost moods, enhance information retention and even promote sleep.
Some people even use ambient music as a form of meditation. It is essential that you select the right kind of ambient music for you; pick something calming, dedicate some time to listen, and find a quiet place where you can do so.
One popular way to listen to ambient music is through sound machines or speakers. These devices use white noise to create a soothing acoustic environment and can be very effective for increasing focus. They’re especially beneficial in offices as they block out conversations and add an extra layer of privacy.
Another way to enjoy ambient music is by playing a soundtrack. Not only will this lift the energy in the room, but it can also encourage creativity and boost productivity levels.
Pop
If you’re searching for music to help focus while studying, pop is likely your best bet. This genre often has catchy hooks and strong chord progressions that make it ideal background music. Plus, pop is fun to dance along to which makes it a popular choice at parties and other social gatherings.
Additionally, blocking out other distractions helps you focus on your studies without any outside thoughts interfering with performance. Furthermore, listening to music with a low bitrate can help increase focus and efficiency when working on difficult subjects.
Classical music has also been found to be beneficial when studying. One study revealed that undergrads who listened to classical music completed tasks faster than their non-listening peers due to its unpredictable pattern, which encourages your brain to pay attention.
However, while classical music may be preferred when studying, electronic music also offers some great alternatives. In fact, electronic music has become one of the most popular choices for students to listen to when they need to stay focused and productive.
Electronic music not only aids in study, but it can also improve mental health. It promotes positive feelings and even prompts us to reminisce about happy memories – keeping us feeling good all day long.
While some might enjoy studying while listening to classic rock or rap music, others opt for modern electronic music. This type of music helps enhance concentration and focus while keeping you in a more positive frame of mind.
Beyond its benefits for academics, electronic genres can also be utilized during workouts and other physical activities. This way, music can motivate you and make working out enjoyable.
Another advantage of electronic music is its accessibility; it can be enjoyed at any time, even in the middle of the night. Furthermore, it has been known to serve as a sleep aid, especially for those struggling to rest due to stress.