Treatment through Melody: Exploring the Healing Power of Music

Montreal, a city known for its vibrant music scene, is also home to a leading research centre in the field of music and the brain. The International Laboratory for Brain, Music, and Sound Research (BRAMS) is at the forefront of uncovering the biological foundations of musical experience.

One of the key figures at BRAMS is Simone Dalla Bella, who is studying the clinical implications of these discoveries. Dalla Bella's group has made significant strides in the field of music therapy, particularly in the area of rehabilitation.

The group's work has shown promising results, making them the first to demonstrate a positive effect of music therapy. They use apps like Beat Workers, accessible on phones and tablets, to facilitate music therapy sessions.

One of the key findings is the link between the auditory and motor systems. Previously thought to be unique to humans, this connection has been observed in sea otters, crocodiles, and certain primates. However, the parietal cortex may not be as crucial as previously thought in this link, according to recent studies.

Researchers have also discovered that neuron oscillations in the brain synchronize with the rhythm of music. A study by Caroline Palmer from McGill University confirms this link. Palmer's research also suggests that simpler rhythms are easier for the brain to reproduce, while major chords are generally associated with cheerful songs, such as "Happy Birthday".

On the other hand, minor chords are associated with sad music, such as a funeral march, due to their frequencies being more difficult for the brain to reproduce. This observation underscores the unique ability of music to evoke emotions.

Benjamin Morillon, co-director of BRAMS, believes that these discoveries will help develop music therapy approaches for various disorders such as epilepsy, Parkinson's, and stuttering. Early results suggest that music might be used to reduce seizures in drug-resistant epilepsy patients, according to Morillon.

In the realm of Parkinson's disease, it's possible to help a patient walk by having them take steps in time with a metronome, according to Dalla Bella. Music therapy rehabilitation after a stroke and support for children with autism, attention deficit disorder, or stuttering is also possible, as shown by Dalla Bella's group.

The link between hearing music and movement has been confirmed by a new study from Switzerland, although the source of the unique human ability to produce music remains a mystery. Some studies suggest that the most popular rhythms can vary from one culture to another, according to Caroline Palmer.

These discoveries are opening up new avenues for the use of music therapy in rehabilitation and treatment. As research continues, we can expect to see more innovative applications of this ancient art form in modern medicine.