This study investigated a method of clarifying the effects of sound elements in music on blood pressure. As experimental sound conditions, two paired sets were made; one pair was composed music R and fluctuating noise corresponding to music R, the other pair was composed music S and fluctuating noise corresponding to music S. Subjects were exposed to each of the sounds for 130 sec at the most comfortable intensity level for each sound as adjusted by the individual subject. The blood pressure was measured continuously by Finapres. Elevation of the blood pressure while listening to music R was more dominant than that on exposure to fluctuating noise. That was, the effects of timbre and melody were manifested. On the contrary, the changes in blood pressure on listening to music S showed results similar to those on exposure to fluctuating noise, indicating that sound intensity, tempo, and rhythm were the main source of the effect. This study presented the new method for clarifying the physiological effects by the sound elements.
