Music & the Brain
What is Neuroplasticity
The brain's ability to reorganize its structure, functions, and neural connections, in response to learning, experience, or injury.
People who display more openness often prefer what kinds of genres?
Complex genres (progressive rock/metal, jazz, etc)
What tempo are Alpha waves typically?
Slow
What tempo are Beta Waves in?
Higher tempo
Are Gamma Waves fast tempo?
Not always, but often they tend to be
What is Active vs. Passive engagement with music?
Active music-making includes playing instruments, singing, etc. It has a more direct, intense impact on neuroplasticity.
Passive engagement is listening to music.
What beats per minutes (BPM) are required in order to be considered Alpha Wave
60-80
What beats per minute (BPM) are required in order to be considered Beta Waves?
100-140 bpm
What are some benefits of Gamma Waves?
Enhances creativity or deep processing
True of False? Can listening to music assist people with dementia?
True
People who tend to be extroverted may prefer specific genres for what reason?
Social validation or relatability
What is a benefit of Alpha wave sounds/music?
Reduces Anxiety
Enhancing processing of emotions
True or False: Beta Waves are used for calming.
False, they are used for activation rather than calming.
What are Binaural Beats?
specific 40 hz binaural beats - where different frequencies are played in each ear - are used to encourage the brain to produce gamma waves
True of false? Can music regulate the nervous system
True
Music taste is deeply personal, and is shaped by what 3 things?
Emotion, environment, and psychology.
True or False: Alpha Waves can help with pain management.
True! Research has found that with certain techniques, such as neurofeedback, can increase alpha wave production, which is associated with lower pain perception.
What are some benefits of Beta Waves?
Increased focus
Help with task engagement
Can help lethargy
What are some applications are Gamma Waves?
These auditory stimuli are used in focus music for studying or working
What parts of the brain does music stimulate?
Memory, emotion, and motor areas
At what stage of development does upbringing and culture have the most impact on your taste in music? A) Early childhood (before 10) B) Early adolescence (11-14) C) "Reminiscence Bump" 14-17
Trick question! A is correct for your age groups. Once you hit adulthood, the answer would be C.
What are Alpha Waves?
What are Beta Waves?
Fast brainwaves linked to alertness, active thinking, and focus. They are involved in active engagement. However, excessive "high beta" (overthinking) can inhibit anxiety, self doubt and reduce focus.
What is neural synchronization?
They are a component of Gamma Waves that are thought to help unify different brain areas