Reading Music and the Brain

Learning to read music engages the brain in unique ways, leading to long-term benefits for memory, learning, and even ageing.

When musicians read notation, their brains rapidly interpret symbols, rhythms, and dynamics, forming complex neural connections. Studies suggest that this strengthens long-term memory and aids in learning new information more effectively. A study by Hanna-Pladdy and Mackay (2011) found that older adults with musical training performed better on cognitive tasks, suggesting that reading music may help slow cognitive decline.

Additionally, the link between sound and symbols in music reading enhances phonological processing, which is essential for language development and literacy (Tierney & Kraus, 2013). This can benefit children learning to read, as well as adults acquiring new languages.

Ultimately, reading music is more than just a technical skill—it’s an activity that keeps the brain sharp, improves learning capacity, and may even contribute to lifelong cognitive health.

References

• Hanna-Pladdy, B., & Mackay, A. (2011). The relation between instrumental musical activity and cognitive aging. Neuropsychology, 25(3), 378–386.

• Tierney, A., & Kraus, N. (2013). The ability to move to a beat is linked to the consistency of neural responses to sound. The Journal of Neuroscience, 33(38), 14981–14988.