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Has your brain changed with music?

#22
Been playing music since I was 7 (piano for a few years then started bass when I was about 9 or 10), 21 now.

Everyone tells me I have a bass player's personality (and looks), and I did quite well in school.... it must have done something.


I believe there are studies flying around about the brains of people that learn an instrument from a young age developing faster/further in certain areas
 
#24
It's not only music that changes the brain. The brain is a miracle of interactive adaptation. No matter what we did during the day that was challenging or stimulating, when we sleep that night the brain works to incorporate the experiences.

It looks for lessons that can be abstracted, analogies with our previous experience, and wires it up so we're better prepared for more stimulation in the same realm of life.

Yup, music changes the brain. Music is one of many complex life experiences; and LIFE changes the brain.
 
#25
Idk,my ears are kind of ruined from all the music I play,my little 3 month old nephew will be crying and I'll notice that his wailing is perfect quarter notes in the key of C.since I've started bass though,all music has been ruined for me and I only hear the bass track and drums.to me bass is kinda like nicotine,if I can't do it everyday,I get pissy and irritable.
 
#28
A couple of good books on this are "This is your brain on music", and "The world in six songs". I don't agree with everything in them, but it's an interesting read. But I started so young that comparing my 37 year old brain to my 9 year old brain seems like a stretch. But for what it's worth, I'm no rocket surgeon as a growed up.

And hey, drummers have feelings too. Feelings for your girlfriend. Watch them ALL closely.
 
#29
Music does in fact cause a physiological response in the brain. It not only helps with cognitive functioning but with large and small motor skills, stress relief and it can help out with emotional balance. Music is a powerful tool for self improvement and therapeutic goals regardless of age. I once saw a quote from Einstien stating that he came to the solution to most of his toughest problems while playing his violin.
 
#30
Worth reading:
This is your brain on music : the science of a human obsession by Daniel Levitie. [whoops. see it was mentioned earlier. call this another recommendation]

I have 3 kids. Each started piano lessons at 6 years old. Each played multiple instruments through their High School years (my youngest is just 12). All are quite smart.

I give music the credit. Cause they didn't get it from me.
 
#32
I think that having to remember all the notes in any given song has helped to keep my memory sharp which in my day time career I have to be on top of many things 24-7! Also I find it a great way to unwind at the end of the day just grab the bass and just noodle for a hour or so. So in those ways I think it has improved my brain function. Ps, the rockstar mirror posing I'm still working out in Therapy. lol
 

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