Music -- Physiological effect; Music, Influence of
The central switchboard should be housed in a relatively sound proof
room or booth. Additional equipment for it should include shelves for
recordings and a telephone for which the usual bell signal is replaced
by a light signal. An instantaneous record-cutter which permits the
operator to record programs from the radio or microphone will be found
of great value, but the expense involved may be too great for most
hospitals of fewer than 500 beds.
It is most advisable that a full-time operator for the system be
employed. The operator should have a pleasant voice, but even more
important, a highly intelligible one. He will require some basic
training in the operation of the switchboard and its accessories and
this should be the obligation of the organization which installs the
equipment. The operator should be required to keep a written record
of everything that emanates from the studio. He should be responsible
for the routine care of the apparatus and know enough about its parts
to recognize defects early and to correct some of the simpler ones. He
must be prepared to live a lone life. There is always a temptation to
invite or permit guests in the studio, and the resultant diversion or
conversation might adversely affect the broadcast.
If an instantaneous record cutter is available he should read “_How
to Make Good Recordings_” (Audak Co. of New York) which is not only
valuable for the recording of music but gives some excellent advice
concerning the use of the proper needle for music reproduction and the
use of the microphone.
PROGRAM
_Music._ The public address system should be operated on a rigid
schedule in imitation of a commercial radio studio. This is necessary
because the patients will come to expect certain features at specified
times of the day and fluctuations may result in disappointment and
reduced morale. The program policy should be the direct concern of the
hospital superintendent and any service chiefs who are interested.
The hours of use will vary considerably with the individual hospital
from a few hours to a very full program. Because of the great number
of possible variations, some general applications will be considered
first and then a model program will be suggested.
The hour of awakening for patients may vary from about six to seven.
At some time during that hour, a program of exhilarating music is
indicated to start the day off right and perhaps get better cooperation
between the patients and the nursing personnel in morning care. To this
end, military or other marches are suggested as well as gay melodies,
because as Seashore[73] has shown, “pronounced rhythm brings on a
feeling of elation,” and martial music is traditionally stirring. This
program should last from fifteen to thirty minutes, and should be
followed by silence for at least fifteen minutes before breakfast is
served. It is unwise to begin eating while too stimulated.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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