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video by: Jack Feinberg

Have you ever thought about using trance music to help relieve stress? Several music therapy articles document how trance music has been used to promote relaxation.

Trance music emerged in the 1990s in Germany. Trance music has a tempo ranging from 130 to 150 beats per minute, and is said to leave a “high” feeling. The beats are consistent, making it natural to move to the beat and follow the rhythm. Most trance music incorporates electronic sounds, vocals and recurring melodies that fade in and out.

This particular video is unique because it doesn’t have the typical electronic synth sounds or the kick drum beats. But what it does have is the driving rhythm that creates that “trance”-like feel. The guitarist uses a classical guitar to create trance music. Like most trance music, it has a recurring melody. He plays the melody in several octaves and variations. He creates the feeling of movement throughout the song; it’s tough not to move your head or tap your toes. He also stays within the 145-151 bpm. The combination of repetitive notes and the fluid melody generates a calm and relaxed feeling. His fingers fly gracefully over the frets. The rhythm, sound, and sight of his fingers on the strings leaves you in a trance.

Some prefer classical music to help relieve stress. Most assume that fast paced music with fast drum beats and multiple electronic sounds can cause overstimulation and anxiety. But music of all kinds has been used in healing rituals all over the world. Music can leave you in an altered state of consciousness. It can trigger thoughts and feelings. It can be as a used to energize or motivate one to move. It can also be used to relax.

So before reaching for Bach and Beethoven, how about some trance music for a change?

P.S. For those in the Minneapolis area, check out Electronic Music – Minneapolis, MN Events on Facebook!