USF’s Jennifer Bugos is studying the effects of piano lessons on cognition and everyday functioning in patients undergoing chemotherapy. The piano training protocol, Keys to Staying Sharp, includes more patterns and repetition than typical piano lessons. Early data suggest musicians demonstrated enhanced executive functions after receiving group piano lessons and found learning the piano enjoyable and relaxing.
A separate study found that playing the JSax (a small saxophone) can improve respiration of adults experiences breathing difficulties following COVID-19 and increase their executive functions. “Learning a challenging new activity such as learning a musical instrument can increase sensorimotor activity leading to strengthened neural pathways and enhanced cognition,” says Bugos. The team is working to distinguish which types of fine and gross motor music interventions have the most impact.
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