University of San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
In this study, we investigate how music listening alters the human brain, with potential to support relaxation and focus, or hinder it. Here, we report changes in particular EEG (electroencephalography) biomarkers in human participants after they have listened to various types of music, specifically comparing how choice music listening (when someone picks their favorite music) creates a different brain response than when someone is subjected to purely instrumental drumbeat or Indian classical music. Particular biomarkers like alpha and theta (fractional) power are discussed, along with commentary regarding the robustness of particular music's impact to support or break down one's ability to enter into an alpha state. Final discussion includes recommendations on how music can empower each of us as individuals to be in more control of our own auditory environments, which impact cognition, learning, and focus.