Of Noise, Music, and Silence: Why What We Listen to Matters

"Although excessive noise has been harmful in a number of ways, music has been shown to improve children with learning disabilities, help elders feel more connected to the world, and even get people into better shape. It provides children with a 'hook' for the brain’s memory centers, allowing them to retain more information, and it can play huge roles in modifying our moods."

Read more from Salon.