Jazz on the Brain.
February 28th 2008 20:46
Signature Tune
When jazz musicians improvise, their brains turn off areas linked to self-censoring and inhibition, and turn on those that let self-expression flow.
Using a specially made piano without any iron containing metal components to accommodate the magnetic fields created and used by MRI Scientists were able to assess the techniques used by jazz musicians and the implications this has for the brain.
Often with their eyes closed these musicians break away from the traditional rules of melody and rhythm. The musician generates music which is completely spontaneous and never been heard before.
Few studies have been done on what is happening in the brain while musicians are composing spontaneously.
Improvisation and blues techniques were assessed.
The scientists found that a region of the brain known as the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, a broad portion of the front of the brain that extends to the sides, showed a slowdown in activity during improvisation.
The researchers also saw increased activity in the medial prefrontal cortex, which sits in the center of the brain’s frontal lobe.
Without creativity man could not have advanced as a species, and the creativity observed in jazz musicians is present is other areas of our lives taking one such simple example as having a conversation where those engaging in it are using their creativity to put words, thoughts and ideas together.
More of this type of research is planned.
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Comment by JoH
Very interesting post, Katyzzz.