Playing music and singing have been shown to provide numerous cognitive benefits, contributing to the development and enhancement of various brain functions.
Research has demonstrated that engaging in musical activities can stimulate multiple regions of the brain and improve cognitive abilities in areas such as memory, attention, language, and executive function.
Memory: Playing music requires musicians to memorize and recall sequences of notes, rhythms, and melodies, thereby enhancing both short-term and long-term memory. A study published in the journal Neuropsychology found that musicians outperformed non-musicians in memory tasks, suggesting that musical training can have a positive impact on memory function (Pallesen et al., 2010).
Attention: Music demands focused attention, as performers must concentrate on reading sheet music, coordinating movements, and listening to other musicians. Research published in the Journal of Neuroscience has shown that musicians exhibit enhanced auditory attention and processing abilities compared to non-musicians (Strait et al., 2010).
Language: Learning to play a musical instrument or sing involves understanding and interpreting symbols (musical notation) and expressing oneself through sound. These skills can strengthen language processing abilities, including phonological awareness, syntax, and vocabulary. A study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: Human Perception and Performance found that musicians have enhanced language processing skills, particularly in tasks related to auditory perception (Moreno et al., 2009).
Executive Function: Musical training requires the coordination of multiple cognitive processes, such as planning, organization, and inhibition. Research published in the journal Cerebral Cortex has shown that musicians demonstrate superior executive function skills compared to non-musicians, suggesting that musical training may promote the development of these cognitive abilities (Bialystok & DePape, 2009).
Furthermore, playing music and singing involve the activation of various brain regions, including the auditory cortex, motor cortex, and prefrontal cortex. Neuroimaging studies have revealed structural and functional changes in these brain areas as a result of musical training, indicating the neuroplasticity of the brain in response to musical stimulation (Schlaug et al., 2005; Hyde et al., 2009).
In summary, playing music and singing can provide effective training for the brain by promoting memory, attention, language, and executive function skills. These cognitive benefits are supported by research demonstrating structural and functional changes in the brain associated with musical training.
In this session, we aim to invite pianist(keyboard), violinist, guitar, singers, drums or other strings instruments to participate.