How Playing an Instrument Benefits Your Brain

When you listen to music, multiple areas of your brain become engaged and active. But when you actually play an instrument, that activity becomes more like a full-body brain workout. What’s going on? Anita Collins explains the fireworks that go off in musicians’ brains when they play, and examines some of the long-term positive effects of this mental workout.

About the Author

Anita Collins

Anita Collins is currently assistant professor of music and arts education at the University of Canberra. Her research projects include examining the capacity, adaption and application of music education for early childhood and primary generalist teachers.