“It is well known …that musical training in childhood modifies brain connectivity, volume and functioning” (Proverbio et al., 2013, p. 538).  Seems that the impact of music on the developing brain is receiving recognition, perhaps even leading to more music neuroscience research. In this quick post we will look at a new music neuroscience study on how music training relates to letter recognition. 

Proverbio and colleagues (2013) examined visual processing of words and notes in 15 musicians and 15 non musicians. The study was completed by examining brain responses using event related potentials (ERPs).

Adult musicians (performance music degree) had different neural responses to processing words. While non-musicians showed left lateralization for word processing, musicians showed bilateral activation in the brain for the same task. The authors concluded that musical training and music reading may impact letter processing. Furthermore, they postulate that the activations observed may have interesting applications for children with dyslexia.

This is one of many studies showing that musicians have different brain activations when engaged in musical and nonmusical tasks. It would be great to see a longitudinal study that followed children who both pursued music and didn’t pursue music to see brain changes over time. How music musical training is required? What is the impact of training on one instrument vs. interactive music experiences? Admittedly, a study of this nature would require a large amount of money for completion.

Reference:

Proverbio, A. M., Manfredi, M., Zani, A., & Adorni, R. (2013). Musical expertise affects neural bases of letter recognition. Neuropsychologia, 51(3), 538-549. PMID: 23238370