[Blaxastij]

I'm finding it difficult to shut my mind off. It wanders so much and so fast it's like herding kittens. Is it prudent to meditate to music or silence? Any personal suggestions?

Sure, some softish music can help us become intimate with the receptive listening aware mind.

Then we can progress to meditation upon silence. Meditation upon silence is especially useful.

Some monks teach meditation upon silence as the primary meditation technique.

But if strong thoughts persist to overwhelm the mind, there are methods (skilful means) that can be used to address those thoughts.

Kind regards

Element