Conrad will showcase science of music, medicine
Two worlds will collide with fascinating results on Monday, Nov. 17, when the UI Carver College of Medicine hosts “Healing Mozart? The Science of Music and Medicine,” a presentation and performance by surgeon and concert pianist Claudius Conrad, MD, PhD, at the Old Capitol Museum. The event is free and open to the public. A reception will begin at 5:30 p.m. followed by the 6:30 p.m. presentation.
Conrad’s visit is part of ongoing programming designed to explore the arts and medicine by the Office of Student Affairs and Curriculum’s Writing Program, along with the Medical Student Humanities Interest Group. Their goal is to help medical students realize that other talents and interests can be integrated with a career in medicine. Also on Monday, Conrad will present an informal talk and piano performance for medical students from 12:30-1:30 p.m. in 1117 MERF.
“In addition to pursuing an active career that incorporates art and medicine, Dr. Conrad has integrated the two in his research,” said Writing and Humanities Program Coordinator Margaret LeMay-Lewis.
The 30-year-old surgeon has studied piano vigorously since he was five, receiving training at elite German music schools at a young age. Now a third-year resident in surgery at Harvard University, Conrad’s research explores tangible links between music and healing.
“Music has been a part of medicine all throughout history,” said Conrad. “Looking at contemporary literature, I’m surprised how little scientific data there is to show the benefits of music. This absence led some to view it as a pseudo science, so I’m trying to show the powerful effects that such a low-risk intervention has.”
Conrad, who holds doctorates in stem cell biology and music philosophy, argues that music may help stimulate a growth hormone that influences healing and sedative effects.
Hoping to gear his presentation toward students, Conrad plans to make the presentation interactive and open to questions from the audience. He’ll also perform works by Mozart and Chopin that correspond to his research.
Aside from the benefits for his patients, Conrad said music improved his own skills as a surgeon.
“In my area, there is a real gymnastic component to move a finger delicately,” said Conrad. “If you spend a lot of time thinking about making the most beautiful tone with your finger on the piano, you gain an awareness with what affect can be caused by a simple movement. A good surgeon is perceptive of this awareness.”
The next major College program to examine humanities in the medical field will be the third annual Examined Life: Writing and the Art of Medicine conference from April 29 to May 1, 2009. The conference brings together writers, editors, medical students, educators and physicians to discuss the use of creative writing in medicine.