by Susan Klatz Beal

Created on: January 20, 2012   Last Updated: January 21, 2012

The calming nature of classical music is not only effective at promoting relaxation, relieving stress, and inducing sleep; it is equally effective as an aid for increasing productivity, aiding in concentration, promoting focus and inspiring creativity and innovation. Teachers use it in the classroom to aid students in learning languages. The term "classical music" is used loosely to encompass all sorts of musical styles that evolved from European tradition. When thinking about "classical music" that is best suited to different types of work, research points to the effectiveness of music that extends from the period of Gregorian chant through the Classical period. 

In his book entitled “The Mozart Effect,” psychologist Don Campbell zeroed in on how certain forms of music, especially genres of classical music impacted the mind, and because of their ability to induce or increase productivity, they are excellent classical music choices to which to work.

• Gregorian Chant

The simplistic sound of Gregorian chant is a wonderful stress reducer that creates quiet in the mind. This is excellent for people who are struggling to focus, are restless or are stressed by projects, deadlines and so forth.

• Baroque Music

Baroque music induces certain enzymes in the brain, and in so doing, adds a sense of well being and focus. Consider listening to Bach, Corelli, Handel or Vivaldi - especially slower movements, if you want to create a stimulating environment that is conducive to creativity and innovation. Baroque musical forms are extremely creative because they call upon a composer to transform one or more themes in multiple different ways. Although people who listen to Baroque music while working may not be aware of the innovative way in which these works were composed, it may be that there is some sort of subconscious awareness that inspires creativity. 

• Classical Period

Listening to background music of Haydn and Mozart is said to improve concentration and memory, and therefore, logically increases productivity. This is outstanding music to which to work. The calming and stress-relieving qualities of classical music may relax people enough to help them focus and allow them to hone in on whatever project or activity they are working on. Classical music forms are very well organized. It doesn't matter whether someone is aware of this while listening or not. The act of listening to classical music while working may simply

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