How Shostakovich Changed My Mind, by Stephen Johnson

How Shostakovich Changed My Mind, by Stephen Johnson

Selected by Raymond Hsu '21

Selected by Raymond Hsu '21

As a double major in biology and music intending to attend medical school, I am fascinated by the intersection of music and health. At Dartmouth, I’ve been able to explore my love for music through a variety of different capacities, by performing with the Dartmouth Symphony Orchestra, teaching music, and working at the Paddock Music Library helping students find books and music for various projects. These experiences helped me realize that music has the powerful ability to serve as an outlet for self-expression, connect people together, and elevate moods. After reading How Shostakovich Changed My Mind, I learned that music can even help save lives.  
 
I serendipitously discovered How Shostakovich Changed My Mind while researching for a music theory project on Dmitri Shostakovich, who composed music for the Soviet Union during World War II despite living in fear of Joseph Stalin. This book illustrates several instances where Shostakovich’s music has had healing effects for sufferers of mental illness during their darkest times. From my own personal experience, I think music can indeed be therapeutic. The Covid-19 pandemic has been mentally taxing for everyone, and music has helped me through these difficult times. When I’m a doctor, I want to continue exploring how music can be used as a treatment for mental illnesses.

Raymond Hsu '21

Raymond Hsu '21

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