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Want to fire up the dance floor? Play low-frequency bass

A study published in Current Biology found that undetectable very low frequency sound increases dancing at a live concert, with participants moving 12% more when the speakers were on. The researchers speculate that this is due to physical processes affecting the motor system and brain mechanisms involved.

SourceCell Press·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateNov 7, 2022

Study sheds light on how songs, movies and memories shape how people enjoy lighthearted entertainment

A new study from the University of Kansas found that people tend to have more memories associated with older songs and movie clips, which are often happier and more positive. The researchers discovered that these nostalgic experiences can lead to appreciation for lighthearted entertainment, such as pop music or superhero movies.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of Communication·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateOct 25, 2022

Patients waiting for urgent surgery in A&E feel calmer and experience less pain if given a music pillow

Researchers found that patients awaiting surgery experienced decreased pain and improved relaxation when given a music pillow to listen to during their wait. The study, which included over 30 participants, demonstrated a positive association between music and reduced anxiety in emergency department patients.

Perceived choice in music listening is linked to pain relief

A new study found that people who were given the impression of control over music experienced greater pain relief. Those who actively engage with music in their daily life showed even greater benefits. Music complexity was not linked to pain relief, but feeling in control was key.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2022

Music is key to converting consumers’ good intentions to actual purchases in ethical and sustainable markets

Research finds that up-tempo major mode music can increase purchase intentions for green products, bridging the gap between consumers' words and deeds. Major mode music is effective in reducing the attitude-behaviour gap by 40-50%, regardless of consumer background or product type.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalEuropean Journal of Marketing·TypeObservational study·DateJun 29, 2022

Scientists at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and 23andMe find genetic link to people’s ability to move to a musical beat

Scientists have discovered a significant genetic link to humans' ability to move in sync with music. The study identified 69 genetic variants related to beat synchronization and found connections between rhythm and health, while acknowledging that environment also plays a crucial role.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Human Behaviour·DateJun 17, 2022

Music alleviates collective grief

Researchers analyze viral video of musicians covering Michael Jackson song to understand how it alleviated collective grief during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study identifies key traits that allow empathy and resilience in the face of trauma, highlighting the value of music as a non-pharmacological strategy.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalBehavioral Sciences·TypeCase study·DateMay 19, 2022

Why is there no Uber for live music?

A study by Cornell University researchers found that live music platforms face difficulties in valuing intangible qualities, managing complex tasks, and achieving economies of scale. This is due to the industry's fragmented nature, with different types of gigs requiring unique expectations from clients.

SourceCornell University·JournalNew Technology Work and Employment·DateApr 22, 2022

What do you see when you listen to music?

A study found that listeners in Arkansas and Michigan imagined similar stories, while those in China envisioned unique narratives. The results suggest that music can generate shared experiences despite cultural differences.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 13, 2022

Music combined with auditory beat stimulation may reduce anxiety for some

A new study found that music and auditory beat stimulation can significantly reduce state anxiety in people with moderate trait anxiety. The treatment was more effective than music alone or pink noise for reducing somatic anxiety, while music alone was more effective for reducing cognitive state anxiety.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 9, 2022

Disliking music: what’s the point?

A study explores why people dislike certain music, identifying five main reference points: music composition, lyrics, performance, artist, and social environment. Musical dislikes serve similar functions as preferences but are expressed less openly, fulfilling roles such as maintaining mood or expressing identity.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 22, 2022

Singing in the brain

Researchers discovered a population of neurons in the auditory cortex that responds specifically to singing, but not speech or instrumental music. The study uses electrocorticography (ECoG) recordings to gain higher-resolution data, revealing fine-grained segregation of function within the auditory cortex.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCurrent Biology·DateFeb 22, 2022

Music therapy improves ability to cope with pain for patients with sickle cell disease

A new study found that music therapy sessions improved patients' ability to manage chronic pain and enhance their quality of life. The intervention, which included music-based breathing exercises and progressive muscle relaxation, was feasible, acceptable, and beneficial among adults with Sickle Cell Disease.

SourceUniversity Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center·JournalJournal of Pain Research·DateFeb 16, 2022

Self-​motivation helped pro­fes­sional mu­si­cians main­tain their prac­tice dur­ing the COVID-​19 pan­demic

A study found that self-motivated musicians were more resilient to pandemic threats and maintained their practicing routines, while externally motivated musicians experienced a reduction in dedicated practice time. The research suggests that professional support can help musicians develop coping strategies and redirect focus towards in...

SourceUniversity of the Arts Helsinki·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 7, 2022

Mapping the musical mind

A study by the University of Tokyo reveals that musical training can activate areas of the brain associated with language processing, regardless of experience level. This connection may explain why people enjoy music even if they're not musically inclined.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalCerebral Cortex·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 2021

On repeat: Listening to favorite music improves brain plasticity, cognitive performance of Alzheimer’s patients, Toronto researchers find

Researchers at the University of Toronto have demonstrated that listening to personally meaningful music induces beneficial brain plasticity in patients with mild cognitive impairment or early Alzheimer's disease. The study showed changes in neural pathways correlated with increased memory performance on neuropsychological tests, suppo...

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 9, 2021

New study finds easy way to improve hospital soundscapes

Researchers at McMaster University have found a simple tweak in medical device tones can significantly lower annoyance caused by alarms. The study suggests changing the amplitude envelope of existing sounds to make them sound more musical, without harming efficacy or affecting patient recovery.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalApplied Ergonomics·TypeObservational study·DateOct 14, 2021

Spotify is powerful. Is it biased?

Researchers found that independent-label music and female artists benefit from appearances on Spotify's curated ranked list, which promotes underdog artists. However, the study's findings only apply to New Music Friday playlists and do not address broader industry challenges.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalInternational Journal of Industrial Organization·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 5, 2021

More effective partnerships between medics and dance professionals needed to discover the benefits of dance to health, report finds

Researchers found that dance impacts health in key areas, including sense of identity, belonging, and self-worth. They call for more collaboration with dancers and co-research with participants to better capture the benefits of dance on its own terms.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalInternational Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-Being·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 15, 2021

Experience Yellowstone’s geysers ‘in concert’

Scientists at Anglia Ruskin University have created a new way to experience Yellowstone's geysers through classical music. By sonifying the physical characteristics of the geothermal landscape, they've turned vibrations into melodies, harmonies, and rhythms. The result is an evolving musical representation of the earth, water, and steam.

Coping with COVID-19 through music

A global study found that people use music as a coping mechanism for emotional and social stress, with music listening helping to regulate depression and fear. Music making also provides a sense of community and self-reflection, while 'coronamusic' reveals the power of collective creative responses during times of crisis.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalHumanities and Social Sciences Communications·DateAug 8, 2021

Hitting the right note

Research reveals that even professional female sopranos tend to be inaccurate in self-assessing their own singing abilities. However, those with higher singing competence are better at evaluating themselves. The study's findings suggest that self-evaluation plays a crucial role in developing exceptional musical skills.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalJournal of Voice·DateJul 9, 2021

Slow music in tunnels can keep drivers focused and safe

A virtual reality study found that slow music played as background throughout the tunnel reduces drivers' nervousness and fatigue, while sirens are most effective when played at entry points and during emergencies. The combination of slow music with occasional sirens is proposed as a best solution to improve road safety.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateJul 7, 2021

Forget cash! Credit is key to the survival of busking

A new RMIT University study found that buskers who use digital platforms like apps, QR codes, PayPal, and Bitcoin receive more donations than those using loose coins. The study analyzed over 3,500 active buskers from 121 countries and found that North America and Europe had the most active buskers.

SourceRMIT University·JournalJournal of Cultural Economics·DateJul 1, 2021