Research Updates
Here at Bigger Better Brains we believe that through educating yourself, you can then educate and affect positive change in your community.
With all of the research in the field of neuromusical science, our BBB Research section serves as a content hub for you. We regularly share findings and break down the latest research to educate and inspire discussion. We hope you enjoy this page on our website and share BBB news with your colleagues, parents and students.
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- Music Learning
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- Prosody
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- Research Bites
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- Reward
- Singing
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- Video
- Wellbeing & Therapy
- Working Memory
What happens to your brain when you sing?
Professor Sarah Wilson explains how singing is a form of natural therapy in this video by ABC Classic. She highlights the effect that singing has on motor networks, listening networks, planning and organisational networks, memory, language, and emotional networks. Essentially, singing is a full workout for the brain!
Music as Pain Relief
Recent research suggests that music, especially preferred tunes, can serve as potent painkillers. A study conducted by Darius Valevicius from McGill University found that participants listening to their favourite tracks experienced significantly reduced pain intensity and unpleasantness compared to silence or scrambled sound.
The Key to Healthy Ageing
New research suggests that playing instruments and singing may support brain health as we age. A study found that engaging in musical activities, especially playing keyboard instruments, correlates with improved memory and cognitive function later in life.
Fireworks 007 - Why do people break up with music learning?
Packed with BBB updates and our year in review, a new opinion piece written by Dr Anita Collins, a new community success story, and so much more. Fireworks will inspire and motivate you to advocate for music education.
The Cognitive Symphony of the Brisbane City Pops Orchestra
This article dives into the history and enduring vitality of the Brisbane City Pops Orchestra who have recently celebrated their milestone 50th-anniversary performance. The orchestra boasts a diverse ensemble of musicians spanning generations, including members who have been involved since the beginning.
Playing a musical instrument or singing in a choir may boost your brain
A recent study published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry found that individuals with a history of musical experience, regardless of proficiency or instrument played, exhibited better memory and executive function.
New neuroscience research upends traditional theories of early language learning in babies
New research challenges traditional theories of infant language acquisition, suggesting that babies primarily learn language through rhythmic rather than phonetic information in their initial months.
Fireworks 006 - How do you tell the story of your work?
Packed with BBB updates and our year in review, a new opinion piece written by Dr Anita Collins, a new research reflection, and so much more. Fireworks will inspire and motivate you to advocate for music education.
Music is the Jackpot!
This video contains excerpts from an ARTSpeaks event held on November 8, 2021. In this video, neurobiologist Nina Kraus explores the impact that music learning has on young students in the areas of reading skills, sound processing, language abilities, and more.
The late-life cognitive benefits of early musical training
This study found that people who learned for more than 10 years didn’t have any differences compared with the control group, but they did find the late-life cognitive benefits of early musical training…
Heavy metal has some heavy mental health benefits
Researchers have tried to determine if certain genres of music are “better” than others for developing these vital life skills. This article highlights recent research into a genre you might not expect to have such positive impacts.
Music’s Secret Genetic Power: What It Means for Language and Learning
A groundbreaking study in Nature Human Behaviour has revealed a fascinating genetic connection between musical rhythm skills and language-related traits, including dyslexia.
Unlocking the Connection Between Music, Memory, and Learning
Recent research from the Georgia Institute of Technology has unveiled compelling insights into how music affects learning, memory, and emotions.
How Music Fuels Memory
A recent study from Aarhus University reveals that while older adults can remember familiar music as well as younger individuals, their brains engage differently during the process.
Advocacy in Action Quiz
Take our free, 60 second quiz and maximize your advocacy impact by discovering your advocacy style and knowledge gaps.
Holiday Cheer, BBB Style: Share the Joy and the Knowledge!
Thank you for a wonderful 2024! Here’s a little gift from BBBB to you.
Depressed? Classical music could be the unexpected remedy!
Music has always been a go-to for lifting our spirits, but did you know classical music might take it a step further by actually helping treat depression?
Top 7 questions asked by students
Founder of Bigger Better Brains, Dr Anita Collins, receives hundreds of emails from students around the world asking questions about neuromusical research. So she decided to record a short video about the most asked questions she has received.
The surprising link between music and cognitive health in older adults
Can music play a role in healthy aging? According to new research, the answer might be yes.
Can Music Sync Our Heartbeats? This Study Says Yes!
Imagine sitting in a concert hall, completely immersed in the music, when something incredible happens—you and the people around you begin to breathe and feel the same rhythm.
Trick or Treat! The Halloween Themed Digital Campaign
We're thrilled to announce the launch of our Trick or Treat Digital Campaign for Halloween. Enter your email and receive the campaign now!
Tuning up our Brain for the Test
As a music teacher, how often have we heard the phrase, “I have to skip rehearsal, I have a test”? In my school, as in many schools, we have our only rehearsal time in the morning prior to school starting, and I hear this comment regularly through the school year.
Singing is not just singing, it is social glue
A new research project will investigate if singing together could be more than just a pleasant pastime; it might be a powerful tool for enhancing cooperation across various aspects of society, from classrooms to boardrooms.
‘If you’re aiming for this…’ Free Digital Download
Introducing our exciting new ‘If You’re Aiming for This…’ campaign, created to help you engage with your community like never before!
Pitch Perfect: Singing Earworms Reveals Surprising Trait
Many of us have experienced those catchy tunes that get stuck in our heads, but did you know that nearly 45% of people can sing these earworms in perfect pitch?
Singing Together: How choirs boost brain health and emotional well-being
Singing in a community choir is more than just a musical activity—it's a powerful therapeutic experience
Ebook: Music benefits every child!
There is a commonly held belief that learning music should only be for those students who are identified as talented or interested. Neuromusical research has shown that music learning can benefit all students in terms of cognitive development.
'Wanna Be Like...' Olympics Edition
We're thrilled to announce the launch of our Olympics 'Wanna Be Like...' campaign, created to celebrate the excitement of the 2024 Olympic Games!
