Classical Music & Academic Stress Research
Melodic Relief is an original research project I conducted in 2024 to explore how classical music can help reduce academic stress in Vietnamese high school students. Using a randomized controlled trial with 100 participants, I analyzed the effects of Baroque, Romantic, and Impressionist music on stress levels.
The results confirmed classical music’s measurable ability to ease anxiety, especially after high-stakes testing. This project was guided by Professor James Bellini (Syracuse University) and reflects my ongoing interest in the intersection of music, psychology, and education.
Highlights
The idea for this research came from personal experience — witnessing how music helped me manage stress during intense academic pressure. I wondered: could classical music offer real therapeutic value, not just artistic beauty?
This curiosity turned into a rigorous study that showed how different styles of classical music — especially Baroque and Romantic — can significantly lower stress in high-pressure environments like schools. Seeing this impact inspired me to share these findings beyond research circles. In November 2024, I gave a TEDx Talk titled “The Power of Classical Music”, where I discussed how music can become a tool for mental health, connection, and emotional regulation.
What began as a science project has since grown into a personal mission: to help more people access the emotional and psychological benefits of classical music.