By: Atrena Azordegan
The decision to undertake my particular project was rooted in the significant roles that music and psychology have played in my life.
My passion for music dates back to my early childhood when I began my journey with the piano at the age of two. Simultaneously, my academic pursuits led me down the path of psychology, culminating in my recent graduation in the field. It was during my studies, particularly while exploring the history of Auschwitz in the context of “Witnessing Auschwitz,” that I encountered a pivotal moment.
In delving into the orchestra’s role within the concentration camp, I was struck by how music was employed as a tool to dehumanize and traumatize the prisoners. This revelation ignited my curiosity about the profound impact of music on the human psyche. However, my exploration did not end there.
As I delved further into the history of resistance within the camp, I discovered that music also served as a powerful means of healing and providing solace to those who had endured trauma. This striking contrast, wherein music could both traumatize and heal, fascinated me and led me to delve deeper into understanding the intricate interplay between music and psychology.