Date of Award

2019

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelors

Department

Social Sciences

First Advisor

Cook, Peter

Area of Concentration

Psychology and Music

Abstract

In the present case study heart rate (HR) and electroencephalography (EEG) data of 6 professional pianists (experts) and 6 non-musicians (non-experts) were recorded in order to explore the differences of heart rate variability (HRV) and brain functional connectivity in primary motor, visual, and auditory cortices related to music performance. All participants performed aural, visual, and combined aural/visual tasks that involved a short musical passage and written excerpt from a novel. Pianists additionally performed a mental practicing task that involved imaginary public performance of a familiar piece with all physical and aural aspects of live performance. The EEG data of two experts, and HRV data of two non-experts and four experts were omitted from analysis procedures due to recording artifacts. The results of the study indicate no significant difference of the EEG entropy levels between experts’ and non-experts’ cortices despite their significant age difference. This may be explained by the high cognitive load professional pianists are accustomed to from the early age while going through extensive training and public performance. There was no significant difference found in HRV between base and other conditions in pianists and non-musicians. These results suggest that music might help regulate and preserve parasympathetic activity in professional pianists. Limitations of the current study, future directions, and implications for the education system are discussed.

Download

Share

COinS