Your Brain on Music: A Story of Song Meets Science
Daniel Levitin, Author, This Is Your Brain on Music
In musical conversation with Alex de Grassi, Grammy Award-nominated Fingerstyle Guitarist
Ever wonder what’s going on in your brain when you tune in to your favorite radio station or hum that song stuck in your head? Humans have been creating and enjoying music for thousands of years, but what really creates the experience? Is the brain of a musician different than the brains of the rest of us? Join us as Levitin and De Grassi jam, chat and foot tap their way through the story of “Music and the Mind Machine.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_r5HGyWtxU
Daniel Levitin is a cognitive psychologist, neuroscientist, and author best known for his book “This Is Your Brain on Music: The Science of a Human Obsession.” Published in 2006, the book explores the relationship between music and the brain, delving into how music is processed, perceived, and experienced neurologically and psychologically.
In “This Is Your Brain on Music,” Levitin draws on insights from cognitive psychology, neuroscience, and music theory to unravel the mysteries of musical perception and cognition. He discusses topics such as the neural mechanisms underlying rhythm, melody, harmony, and emotion in music, as well as the ways in which musical training and expertise shape the brain.
Levitin’s book also explores the evolutionary origins of music, its role in human communication and social bonding, and its therapeutic potential in treating neurological and psychological disorders. Through engaging anecdotes, scientific research, and accessible explanations, Levitin offers readers a deeper understanding of the profound impact that music has on the human brain and behavior.
“This Is Your Brain on Music” has received widespread acclaim for its ability to translate complex scientific concepts into layman’s terms and its ability to captivate readers with fascinating insights into the inner workings of the mind. Levitin’s work has contributed to a broader appreciation of the cognitive and emotional dimensions of music, inspiring further research and exploration into this interdisciplinary field.