Listening To Classical Music Improves Memory, Study Finds

Brain News

Researchers at the University of Chieti and the University of Padova explored how classical music improves memory. The study is published in the journal Aging Clinical and Experimental Research.

The Study

To understand the effects of classical music on the brain, the research team conducted a series of experiments with older adults. The participants were asked to listen to classical music (“The Four Seasons” by Italian composer Antonio Vivaldi), white noise, and sounds that are not music.

Then, they had to complete two working memory tasks and their respective cognitive performance was assessed.

The Findings

The results revealed that classical music enhances cognitive performance and memory retrieval. This is called the “Vivaldi effect”.

It is further found that even in the brains of patients with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, classical music helps fire off synapses—thereby creating or re-energizing brain pathways that were previously impaired or left dormant.

To Know More You May Refer To

Mammarella, N., Fairfield, B., & Cornoldi, C. (2007). Does music enhance cognitive performance in healthy older adults? the Vivaldi effect. Aging Clinical and Experimental Research, 19(5), 394–399. https://doi.org/10.1007/bf03324720

Share your love
Mind Help
Mind Help
Articles: 2440

Disclaimer: The informational content on this platform have been created and reviewed by qualified mental health professionals. They are intended solely for educational and self-awareness purposes and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing emotional distress or have concerns about your mental health, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional or healthcare provider.