With the death of Michael Jackson, I am reminded of the power of music. This morning, I heard "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin' " with my left ear from a passing car in Denver – and "Beat It" with my right ear, through my cell phone, as I talked to a friend in Helsinki. People everywhere are blasting Michael Jackson, inspired and moved by his music.
When you think about it, what else unifies people like music? What else makes such a profound impact on the way we think and feel?
Certainly Michael Jackson made his mark on me, especially in grade school. I did my fair share of moonwalks and "Thriller" lip sync competitions.
But for me, playing the piano – mainly Chopin – was my real passion. So too was singing, everything from a cappella to Gospel choir in college. Then there was the music that filled my house every waking hour. Schubert, "The Magic Flute," Bach's Goldberg Variations – they became a soundtrack to the story of my life.
To this day, I tear up when I hear a Chopin nocturne and am transported by its beauty. Similarly, there are pieces of music that pump me up for the gym. And others that wind me down after a long day's work. All these feelings, triggered subconsciously by music.
Tonight's "
Nova: Musical Minds" at 7 explores this very phenomenon; the power of music over our mind and body – and how it influences our well being.
Neurologist Oliver Sacks investigates the story of four people who have been transformed by music, from a man with Tourette's syndrome who uses drumming to combat his symptoms to a man who was struck by lightning and suddenly becomes an accomplished piano player.
Counting down the minutes to see it. It's going to be one fascinating ride, especially if you're a die-hard music fan like me. Tune in tonight at 7.
-Elizabeth Mayer, Rocky Mountain PBS
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