WE live in a very diverse age, with cultures from around the world cohabiting, with interesting results.

Yes there are areas with segregated communities and conflicts of interest, but for the most part our integrations have led us to become richer and more diversified in our mixing of traditions. One of which of course is music.

Music has the power to heal. It has the ability to find strengths we didn’t realise were there. Music can inspire a nation and bring together different communities.

The human condition craves ways of self-expression - for some it is dancing, writing stories or making television. There are those who paint and those who build. For some it can be prayer and others it is public speaking. Through the gift of music we are able to truly explain to others around the world what we are feeling in any given circumstance. Music does not discriminate. Music is a universal language and we must protect our freedom to create it.

There is of course a side of music for profitable gain, influencing less than desirable behaviour and trends. With something as universal as music there will come sexual references, violent lyrics, gang related boasting, and a great number of awfully produced chart dribble that keeps me feeling too old to listen to it.

But of course there are positives and negatives in all aspects of life - it is what gives us balance.

Unfortunately, this side of music, which is only a small percentage overall, is commonly used when arguing against it and in any discussions regarding the subject of music. Those who don’t enjoy this artform rarely seem to reference anything other than some stereotypical pop, rap and diva style songs that might influence particular types of lifestyles.

This means that for some of those who don’t really enjoy music, whether due to personal preference or other reasoning, their understanding of it seems misguided and limited. It’s not an easy task to make your mind up about something you’re not overly knowledgeable about but I will defend their right to their opinion, as diversity is what makes us special.

I have no particular list of songs, artists or genres that I love the most because, like changing emotions, my music taste alters depending on the time of day or year we are in and what my mood is. That all determines the type of tune the heart wants.

When I’m angry my choice of music is heavy metal, because it almost absorbs my rage and calms me down within moments. A lazy Saturday morning brings on ‘cafe jazz’ tunes. My need for adventure can have me listening to indie folk central, which fills my heart with optimism. Working in the garage, I listen to classic rock which helps me stay upbeat and energetic. Evenings can send me to classical or blues and sad days help me rediscover my love for the piano.

The summertime can allow me to enjoy some Lo-Fi hip-hop beats, while winter brings out the goth vibes.

Whatever the sound is and at whatever time, I cannot imagine my life without music. To not have this wondrous gift in the world would be incredibly dull.

In the gym, when my body can’t give anymore, the effect of a good song is like an adrenaline shot which temporarily improves performance. A song from the past can reignite lost memories for people who are elderly or have dementia, and enable them to experience emotional responses. That is true power. First dances at a wedding and saying farewell at a funeral all come with a soundtrack that people remember.

A well placed instrument can accommodate a stage performance or it can bring together strangers in a tavern for a spontaneous song.

I have interacted with several musicians, artists, bands and groups that have had success in the industry on one level or another. They include Be Quiet Shout Loud from Middlesbrough, The Buzztones from Cambridge and an up-and-coming artist named Ellur here in West Yorkshire, who all have very different styles of music yet share the same passion for it.

Live gigs are incredibly memorable as they bring out every emotion that we possess at some point during the show. We can make memories with friends and family and even make new friend through concerts. Gigs can help raise money for charities (remember how Queen’s powerful performance went down at Live Aid) and spread awareness of issues troubling our world.

Music has been a great communicator throughout history and will continue to guide us through the good times and the hard times. For me, music is a big part of my life, my soul and my religion. Music is emotion, strength, courage and freedom.