Music divides: for some, it is a valuable ally to concentrate, while for others, it represents a source of distraction. But what if this difference depends not only on the person, but also on the type of music listened to? Researchers are exploring this avenue, identifier sound characteristics capable of directly influencing theactivity cerebral.
A recent study, published in Communication Biology, reveals that rapid modulations in music can synchronize the brain’s natural oscillations, improving concentration. These findings could explain why some music is more effective than others at stimulating attention, especially in people with disorders like ADHD.
Revealing tests
To measure the impact of music on concentration, researchers conducted experiments on a quarantine of participants. They carried out computer tasks requiring sustained attention, All by listening to different musical compositions. Scientists used EEG recordings and MRI scans to observe brain activity in temps real.
The results showed that music with rapid modulations, which accentuate sound contrasts, more activated attentional neural networks. Compared to other types of music or to silence, these compositions allowed better performance in the proposed tasks.
Why fast modulations?
The brain naturally oscillates at certain frequencies, explains Psyche Loui, lead researcher of the study. By integrating these frequencies into music, it is possible to influence brain activity. Rapid modulations, which rapidly adjust acoustic signals, synchronize brain oscillations, a phenomenon called “tone locking.” phase“.
Concretely, these modulations make loud sounds more intense and soft sounds more subtle, creating a sound dynamic that “hooks” the brain. This synchronization promotes better coordination of the neural networks involved in attention, particularly in people prone to inattention.
-A clue for attention disorders
The researchers also tested this music on people with attention difficulties, such as those with ADHD. By increasing the intensity of the rapid modulations, they observed a significant improvement in concentration. These compositions work by regulating brain oscillations, offering a non-drug alternative for managing attention disorders.
These results open up promising perspectives, not only for concentration, but also for other areas such as improving sleep or sports performance. Music thus becomes a tool scientist to explore and optimize brain functions.
Tips for choosing your concentration music
For those who want to use music to booster their attention, researchers recommend songs that are fast, energetic and without words. These characteristics favor the motivation without distraction. However, effectiveness varies between individuals, and it is essential to find what works best for you.
In the meantime, these findings highlight the importance of designing music tailored to specific goals, paving the way for new therapeutic and practical applications.
