During the study, the researchers conducted a direct comparison for the first time between two methods of musical training for individuals without prior experience: performing well-known melodies and creating music in the process. Both approaches showed a positive impact on cognitive functions; however, it was improvisation that demonstrated a more significant effect — improvements were observed not only in memory and learning ability but also in motor skills.
Participants studied music for 12 months — significantly longer than in most previous studies. Analysis of the results showed that the increase in musical skills directly affects overall cognitive performance, which calls into question the notion that the benefits of music can be explained solely by the individual characteristics of the participants.
The researchers also noted that it does not matter whether a real instrument, such as a piano, or digital applications on a tablet are used for training. The important factor is the way in which a person learns music. According to the authors of the study, improvisation may prove to be a particularly useful tool for maintaining brain health in older adults, including those who face difficulties with memory.
