Classical music is often a good choice for music therapy, but some experts warn that it s not perfect. It wasn t written specifically for music therapy, explains Janalea Hoffman, R.M.T., a composer and music therapist based in Kansas City, Missouri. Baroque music has a beat that s slow enough to slow down your heartbeat. But the beat changes during the piece, sometimes faster and sometimes slower. And that may make it harder for your heart to react.
Many composers now write music specifically for therapeutic use.
Much of it falls into a category called New Age. This music has a carefully timed beat and a sequence of tones that is supposed to stimulate relaxation. Music stores usually carry a selection of New Age recordings, some of which are tailored for relaxation, improved concentration, weight loss and other purposes. Popular music can be relaxing to some people, too. But Dr. Halpern says research shows that the typical backbeat of rock n roll music might actually weaken muscle strength while people are listening to it.