The relationship between classical music and cognitive development has garnered considerable interest, particularly in its effects on children and adolescents. This interest stems from the potential for classical music to serve as a tool for enhancing cognitive abilities such as memory, attention, language acquisition, and problem-solving skills. During the formative years of childhood and adolescence, the brain undergoes rapid development, and it is during this period that interventions, such as exposure to music, can significantly shape cognitive outcomes.
The focus of this review is to examine how classical music impacts cognitive abilities in children and adolescents. Previous research suggests that classical music can have a significant influence on brain functions that are critical for academic success and overall cognitive development. This analysis narrows the age scope to understand the developmental implications of classical music, providing insights for educators, parents, and clinicians interested in harnessing music for cognitive enhancement during these critical developmental years.
Spatial Reasoning
Research has long suggested a positive correlation between classical music and spatial reasoning, particularly in young children. Spatial reasoning, a cognitive skill critical for understanding and solving problems in mathematics and science, is enhanced when children are exposed to classical music. Studies involving the "Mozart Effect" found that children who listen to Mozart and other classical composers show improved performance in tasks that require spatial-temporal reasoning. The complex structure of classical music, characterized by harmonic and melodic elements, activates neural pathways related to spatial processing in the brain (Rauscher et al., 1993). These findings indicate that even short-term exposure to classical music can have measurable effects on children’s spatial reasoning abilities.
Memory and Learning
Classical music has been linked to improvements in both short-term and long-term memory in children and adolescents. The repetitive and structured nature of classical compositions is thought to enhance the encoding and retrieval of information in the brain. For instance, children who engage in classical music training or are regularly exposed to classical music in an educational setting often exhibit superior memory retention in academic contexts. One study demonstrated that children learning to play classical instruments, such as the piano, showed enhanced verbal memory performance compared to non-musicians (Ho et al., 2003). This is particularly relevant for learning environments, where improved memory contributes to better academic outcomes.
Attention and Focus
The calming and organized nature of classical music has also been shown to improve attention and focus in children and adolescents. Listening to classical music helps reduce anxiety and mental distractions, fostering a more conducive environment for concentration. This is especially important in educational settings where distractions are prevalent. Research has shown that students who listen to classical music while studying or working on tasks can sustain focus for longer periods compared to those in silence or exposed to other genres of music (Artur et al., 2018). Given the increasing distractions in today’s digital environment, classical music may offer a valuable tool for enhancing attention and task performance.
Language Development
The auditory processing skills enhanced by classical music also play a significant role in language development. The rhythmic and tonal patterns of classical compositions mirror linguistic structures, making it easier for children to discern patterns in speech and sound. In younger children, early exposure to classical music has been associated with improved phonological awareness, which is critical for reading and language comprehension. Studies have shown that children who are musically trained are more adept at recognizing language patterns and learning new vocabulary, suggesting that classical music can support language acquisition (Moreno et al., 2011).
Emotional Regulation
In addition to cognitive benefits, classical music contributes to emotional regulation in children and adolescents. The soothing qualities of classical music can reduce stress and promote emotional balance. Adolescents, in particular, may experience heightened emotional reactivity due to hormonal changes and the pressures of academic and social life. Classical music has been found to provide a calming effect, helping young people manage emotions more effectively, which is crucial for emotional and social development (Dingle et al., 2016). This can also enhance cognitive performance, as stress and anxiety often interfere with memory and attention.
Clinical trials
Eight clinical trials related to the influence of classical music on children are listed on ClinicalTrials.gov.
“Lullaby and Classic Music's Effect on Vital Findings and Comfort”: NCT05333575. This study examines the effects of lullabies and classical music on children's vital signs and comfort levels, especially within clinical environments.
“Effects of Music Therapy in Children with Cerebral Palsy”: NCT03640585. The study investigates the impact of music therapy on enhancing motor skills, cognitive abilities, and emotional well-being in children with cerebral palsy.
“The Effect of Two Distraction Strategies in Reducing Preoperative Anxiety in Children”: NCT05285995. Utilizing two dissimilar distraction techniques, including music therapy, in reducing anxiety in children before surgery.
“Evaluation of the Effect of the Presence of Clowns on Pain and Anxiety During Botulinum Toxin Injections in Children”: NCT03149263. This study explores how various forms of entertainment, such as live clown acts and musical activities, help alleviate pain and decrease anxiety levels in children undergoing injections.
“Effect of Reflexology on Pain Management in Newborns”: NCT05235893. Examines the use of reflexology, enhanced by a musical environment, to assess its effectiveness in managing pain in newborns.
“Effect of Snoezelen-Based Occupational Therapy Intervention on Sleep and Behavior Problems in Infant at Risk of Autism”: NCT06164210. A study exploring the effects of multisensory Snoezelen therapy, which includes soothing music, on sleep patterns and behavior in infants with a heightened risk of autism.
“Integrative Medicine for Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy”: NCT03290976. The study assesses the use of integrative medicine strategies, such as music therapy, to alleviate symptoms of peripheral neuropathy induced by chemotherapy in pediatric patients.
“The Effects of Pacifier Activated Lullaby in VLBW Preterm Infants (PAL)”: NCT04337476. This trial explores how lullabies influence feeding habits, stress reduction, and developmental outcomes in very low birth weight preterm infants.
The influence of classical music on cognitive abilities in children and adolescents is supported by a growing body of research. By enhancing spatial reasoning, memory, attention, language skills, and emotional regulation, classical music offers a range of cognitive benefits that are particularly impactful during childhood and adolescence. Integrating classical music into educational practices, whether through active music participation or passive listening, could contribute to better academic outcomes and overall cognitive development.
Future research should continue to explore the long-term effects of classical music on cognitive abilities in this age group, focusing on diverse populations and varying educational contexts. Additionally, understanding the neural mechanisms underlying these benefits will further solidify the role of classical music as a valuable tool in promoting cognitive health and development in younger populations.
By: Theia Minev
References:
Rauscher, F. H., Shaw, G. L., & Ky, K. N. (1993). Music and spatial task performance. Nature, 365(6447), 611.
Ho, Y. C., Cheung, M. C., & Chan, A. S. (2003). Music training improves verbal but not visual memory: Cross-sectional and longitudinal explorations in children. Neuropsychology, 17(3), 439-450.
Artur C. Jaschke, Henkjan Honing, and Erik J. A. Scherder (2018). Longitudinal Analysis of Music Education on Executive Functions in Primary School Children. Front Neurosci, (12), 103.
Moreno, S., Marques, C., Santos, A., Santos, M., Castro, S. L., & Besson, M. (2009). Musical training influences linguistic abilities in 8-year-old children: More evidence for brain plasticity. Cerebral Cortex, 19(3), 712-723.
Dingle G.A., Hodges J., & Kunde A. (2016). Tuned In Emotion Regulation Program Using Music Listening: Effectiveness for Adolescents in Educational Settings. Front Psychol, 7(7), 859.
Images:
W. Dolan, E. (n.d.). New research highlights the emotional and cognitive benefits of classical music ensembles for youth. New research highlights the emotional and cognitive benefits of classical music ensembles for youth
luke. (2022, September 12). The Benefits of Classical Music for Children | Community & Culture. Greater Austin YMCA. https://www.austinymca.org/benefits-classical-music-children/
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