Interview with Prof. Alan Harvey
Welcome to the Raising Musos, where we share music education tips to help parents support their child’s musical journey. I’m Eliza Bourgault, founder of Music Makers Academy in Joondalup, Western Australia.
Music has been a part of human culture for thousands of years, and its effects on the brain and body are nothing short of fascinating. In this blog/podcast, we’ll explore the science behind music’s impact on our cognitive and physical well-being, featuring insights from Professor Alan Harvey, a neuroscientist with extensive experience in the study of music and the brain.
How Music Rewires the Brain
The brain is a complex organ capable of adapting and changing throughout life, a concept known as neuroplasticity. When we engage with music—whether through playing an instrument, singing, or simply listening—our brain is actively processing sound, rhythm, melody, and emotion. Professor Harvey explains that music is processed similarly to language, utilizing various parts of the brain to enhance cognitive function and memory.
One fascinating discovery is the way music enhances communication between the brain’s two hemispheres. Playing an instrument, for example, requires coordination between both hands, strengthening the corpus callosum, the fiber tract connecting the left and right hemispheres. This improved connectivity has been linked to better memory retention and problem-solving skills, even as we age.
Music and Healing: The Therapeutic Benefits
Music therapy is increasingly being recognized as a powerful tool in medical settings. From stroke rehabilitation to managing degenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, music has shown remarkable benefits. Professor Harvey has long advocated for integrating music into therapy, noting that it can:
Enhance motor function and coordination, particularly in stroke recovery patients.
Reduce stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels.
Improve pain management through the release of endorphins and dopamine.
Strengthen social bonds, particularly in group singing or instrumental ensembles.
Additionally, music has been found to improve inhibitory control in children, meaning they are better able to think before they act. This self-regulation skill is crucial for academic and social success.
The Role of Music in Memory and Learning
Ever wondered why certain songs bring back vivid memories? Music engages the hippocampus, the brain’s memory center, enhancing recall and emotional connection. Research suggests that learning music at an early age can significantly impact language development, working memory, and auditory perception.
Even in older adults, musical engagement can slow cognitive decline. Studies indicate that musicians tend to retain better auditory perception and memory in noisy environments, which is particularly beneficial as hearing naturally declines with age. Choir singers, for instance, demonstrate enhanced connectivity in brain regions associated with memory processing, emphasizing the cognitive benefits of group music-making.
Music’s Social and Emotional Influence
Music is more than just a cognitive exercise—it’s a powerful social connector. Studies have shown that singing or playing music in a group enhances feelings of trust and cooperation. A well-known study conducted in Oxford demonstrated that strangers who sang together formed stronger bonds than those who merely engaged in conversation. This “icebreaker effect” highlights music’s ability to unite people across different backgrounds and cultures.
Furthermore, the hormones released during musical engagement—such as oxytocin (the “bonding hormone”) and dopamine (the “reward hormone”)—help foster a sense of well-being and connection. This explains why choirs, orchestras, and bands create such tight-knit communities.
Music in Education: Why It Matters
Despite its many benefits, music education often faces funding cuts, with some schools considering eliminating music programs to reduce costs. Professor Harvey warns against this, emphasizing that music is not a luxury but a necessity for child development. Learning music isn’t just about mastering an instrument—it enhances problem-solving, social skills, emotional intelligence, and even math abilities.
Early musical training has been linked to:
Improved vocabulary and language acquisition.
Enhanced memory and cognitive flexibility.
Greater social cooperation and teamwork skills.
Increased resilience and patience through practice and perseverance.
Final Thoughts: The Science Behind the Art
Music is not just an art form; it is deeply rooted in science. It alters brain circuitry, influences neurochemicals, regulates stress hormones, and fosters human connection. Whether for education, therapy, or personal enjoyment, engaging with music is one of the best things we can do for our mental and physical well-being.
So, the next time you pick up an instrument, sing in a choir, or even just listen to your favorite song, remember—you’re not just enjoying music, you’re strengthening your brain, improving your health, and deepening your social connections.
If you found this discussion interesting, check out Professor Alan Harvey’s TEDx talk, Your Brain on Music, for even more fascinating insights!
Do you have any personal experiences with how music has impacted your life? We’d love to hear from you! Drop a comment below or reach out to us at:
Music Makers Academy | Joondalup, WA
📩 hello@musicmakersacademy.com.au
📍 33/27 Piccadilly Circle, Joondalup WA 6027
📞 0466 515 194
