Science of Music

Science of Music

The extraordinary power of music to unlock buried memories in dementia patients

Could dinosaurs sing? Science reveals their surprisingly melodious voices

Forget those terrifying low-pitched roars – scientific research suggests that dinosaur voices may have been more tuneful than we think, reveals Tom Service
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Here are 14 mind-bending acoustic destinations where sound plays by its own rules

Our roundup of the 14 most incredible sound destinations in the world
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Unlock the secrets of music: these four simple concepts will make you a 'super listener'

Our guide to the four concepts that will help you to unlock classical music's secret code and become a great listener
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'Music is like going through the wardrobe into Narnia': why top scientists swear by classical music

Anecdotally, the scientific mind is often drawn to music says Naomi Yandell, who approaches six eminent scholars for their thoughts on its attraction
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Ever felt bored in a concert? Don't worry, you're not alone... and science can explain why

We rarely admit it, but our minds often wander in classical concerts. Why are we so easily distracted, asks Ariane Todes, and how can we learn to engage?
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Why's that tune stuck in your head? The science behind earworms

What are earworms? Are they common and how do I get rid of them? Read on to discover more about this annoying musical phenomenon...
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Scientists have found that music eases pain best when it matches our natural rhythm

Researchers at Canada's McGill University have found that music provides the greatest pain relief when it aligns with a person’s natural rhythm
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Musicians can teach us the secret to a more successful life. Here’s how...

It’s official: playing an instrument is good for your mind and body. But, asks Ariane Todes, what other life skills can musicians teach us?
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Nature's greatest composers: why male humpback whales sing together in harmony

Over a million years, male humpback whales have developed a repertoire of songs whose purpose scientists are now keen to establish, says Tom Service
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Are robotic conductors the future of music – and can they ever be as good as humans?

Just like fads for Tamagotchi and Furbys, robotic conductors are currently flavour of the month – but they’re not a patch on the real thing, says Tom Service
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Music can help tackle multiple sclerosis - here are the scientific benefits

Music’s ability to reduce stress, stimulate nerves and ‘rewire’ the brain can help to manage the symptoms of multiple sclerosis, writes Rebecca Franks
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Calmness, flexibility and time to relax... How to maintain a healthy work-life balance

Violinist Chloe Chua shares how she maintains a healthy work-life balance...
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Impostor syndrome: why even the greatest performers share our feelings of inadequacy

Even the most elevated artists sometimes suffer from impostor syndrome – but that vulnerability makes them even better musicians, explains Tom Service
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How to avoid burnout - advice for musicians, and those in any stressful job

Today’s top young performers offer sage advice to their peers...
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Sonification: electromagnetic 'music' that can help us understand the secrets of the universe

Sonification allows us to listen to the sounds of the universe – and this wondrous music produces insights beyond our visual awareness, says Tom Service
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Stage fright: six top musicians share their experiences and coping mechanisms

Don't be fooled by the cool, calm exterior: stage fright affects even the very best musicians. Hannah Nepil investigates a phenomenon that can wreck careers
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Music and mental health: what scientists have revealed about the connections between them

Does listening to and playing classical music benefit the brain? Though much is still unknown, James Goodwin says there is plenty of evidence to suggest a strong connection between music and mental health
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Timing, poise and mental calm: why legendary gymnast Simone Biles is an inspiration for all musicians

Conductor Gemma New salutes the focus, positivity and grace under pressure of artistic gymnast Simone Biles
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New research shows surge in mental health concerns among musicians and performing artists since Covid-19

The British Association for Performing Arts Medicine has revealed that its mental health consultations have quadrupled since 2019
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