Neuromusic News 12 14jun07

A prerequisite for establishing links between genes and musical behaviors is to characterize the neural substrates underlying such behaviors. This presentation will summarize some of the crucial functional and anatomical specializations of the human brain that may be relevant. In particular, we will emphasize studies of two important music-related abilities: pitch and rhythm. The neural substrates of pitch perception are particularly relevant, as they reveal certain specializations in auditory cortex; processing of absolute pitch may offer a particularly useful model for revealing the interaction between genetic, environmental, and maturational factors. A second area of research that may be fruitful to consider involves rhythmic motor reproduction; current evidence for auditory-motor interactions revealed by such studies may prove important in terms of potential linkages. Finally, we will consider whether any data support the contention that preexisting anatomical or functional neural features may predispose individuals to success with musical training.