Memory and Music

Memory and Music

Have you ever heard a familiar tune and been transported back to a particular time in your life? This type of long-term memory is known as autobiographical memory.^[21] Scientists have discovered the location in the brain responsible for this response to music.^[22] There is a location in the brain right behind the forehead that is responsible for retrieving memory. This spot is also involved in music and emotion. This "hub" for music, memory and emotion may explain why music can bring out strong responses in people with Alzheimer's disease. Because autobiographical memory related to music seems to be spared in people with Alzheimer's disease, the researcher responsible for this study plans to develop music-based therapy for them.

It has also been shown that children who study music have better verbal memory.^[23] It seems that as little as six years of training can boost verbal memory and more training improves verbal memory even more. Reports that young children who listen to Mozart have better reasoning skills, however, have not been confirmed.