Background music is often thought of as something playing in the background without much thought. However, background music has a profound impact on our moods, behaviors and overall experience. Playing the right kind of background music can enhance experiences while the wrong music can detract from them. Let’s explore some of the key ways that background music influences us.
Setting the Mood
Background music is a subtle but effective way to set the overall mood and tone for any environment. Whether it’s a restaurant, retail store, office or any other public space, music plays a huge role in shaping the vibe. Upbeat, cheerful music puts people in a better mood compared to somber or dark music. Background music acts almost like invisible atmospherics that color our perceptions without us consciously realizing it.
Music Genre Matters
The genre of music played makes a big difference. For example, a fast-paced dance track would be ill-suited for a library but perfect for a club seeking an energetic atmosphere. Similarly, soft instrumental music works well in a doctor’s waiting room but not in a high-energy gym. Choosing the right musical styles appropriate for the setting is important. For instance, a classical or jazz soundtrack often creates a sophisticated mood perfect for upscale restaurants and stores.
Impact on Productivity
While music is enjoyed for leisure, it also influences work productivity. Studies show that background instrumentals without lyrics can boost concentration and performance on cognitive tasks. This is because music activates the reward centers of the brain without providing distracting verbal content. Playing motivational soundtracks in offices has been found to increase billable hours and output. However, very loud or complex music impairs focus so volume levels need controlling.
Enhancing Experiences
Thoughtfully selected background music amplifies customer experiences in powerful ways. For instance, playing movie soundtrack scores in bookstores makes browsing books feel like an adventure. Similarly, playing travel-themed instrumental tracks in passport photo stores helps transport customers during an otherwise mundane activity. Ambient music matched to the type of business works wonders in getting customers to linger longer and buy more.
Impact on Mood and Behaviors
Music has the potential to positively or negatively impact moods. Upbeat pop or classical styles put people in a better mood, lowering stress levels. And happy customers spend more time and money in establishments. In contrast, songs with negative lyrics increase aggression and impatience in listeners. Even if we don’t consciously hear the lyrics, the messaging seeps in and colors our behaviors. Sports venues also pump up crowds with energizing rock anthems to stir competitive spirits.
Music for Dining Experiences
The Background Music played at restaurants significantly influences the dining experience. For fine dining, light instrumental jazz or classical music allows for conversation without being intrusive. Upbeat tracks make casual eateries feel lively. However, loud music hampers social interaction so volumes need monitoring. Certain melodic styles like Spanish or Italian augment the ambiance of ethnic cuisine. And playing renowned chef playlists introduces customers to new musical artists alongside culinary discoveries.
Healing Properties of Music
Music has documented benefits in reducing stress, boosting moods and aiding relaxation. Hospitals leverage these healing properties by playing gentle instrumental soundtracks tailored to patient comfort. Recovery wards pipe in calming melodies to counteract anxiety from medical procedures. Pain management centers and spas also leverage soothing music therapeutically. Even supermarkets are beginning to experiment with background tracks to alleviate customer stress from crowds and shopping lists. With the right selections, background music enhances well-being.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
