Music is embedded in the fabric of human culture and evokes an emotional and cognitive response like no other. It is a universal language connecting people, cultures and generations.

The mathematics of music from Beethoven to Bruce Springsteen stimulates the brain in amazing ways and provides a gateway to cognitive longevity that can improve our memory and intellect as we age.

Music evokes emotions, memories, and even physical reactions that resonate to an exact moment in time and place. However, music’s effects on the brain go much deeper than mere nostalgia. Researchers have found that music can actually enhance a range of cognitive abilities including memory, attention, planning, and even spatial reasoning.

For example, a 2017 study had participants memorize a list of words either in silence or while listening to Vivaldi’s “Spring” concerto. The control group listening to Vivaldi remembered and could recite back an average 17% more words from the list. The uplifting tempo and repetitive melody seemed to aid short-term retention.

The Science Behind the Music – Brite Wellness

Brite Wellness believes in harnessing the power of music to enhance cognitive functions, improve overall well-being and create a pathway to a sustainable lifestyle for aging gracefully.

The Brain Training and Exercise (Brite™) Wellness Program was born out of a collaboration among neurologists, neuropsychologists, and occupational therapists with expertise in improving cognitive longevity.

The Brite Wellness Program was developed based on the successful model in Spain, which was created to respond to the demand of aging populations in Europe. The mission of the Brite Wellness Program is to promote the overall health and wellness of people as they age and with those that are experiencing mild cognitive impairments who want to optimize their physical, social, and cognitive functioning.

Brite Wellness applies a programmatic approach with a suite of classes that include music, creative expression, movement & fitness, and cognitive stimulation with their SmartBrain Pro application.

A Unique Blend of Art and Science

On September 19, 2024, at the Carnegie Science Center, Brite Wellness is hosting a one-of-a-kind experience. An exclusive concert and event featuring a unique blend of art and science revealing how music plays an important role in memory and cognitive wellness.

The Art

Award Winning Cellist, Norbert Lewandowski will take the stage with a moving selection of classical and his solo performances from the New World Symphony.

Mr. Lewandoski holds a master’s degree in performance and literature from the Eastman School of Music and currently resides in Charleston, SC. Mr. Lewandowski is currently a cellist with the Pittsburgh New Music Assemble.

The Science

Behind the stage on a large video screen, his performance will be accompanied by an expressive video depicting his actual brain activity while he plays, illustrating how the very essence of music transcends into cognitive improvement and longevity.

“By understanding the connection between music and memory, we can enhance our cognitive health and enrich our well-being for a brighter life.” – James T. Becker, PhD, FAPA, ABPP/CN

For concert details: Music Illuminates The Mind

References

1. Janata, P. (2009). The Neural Architecture of Music-Evoked Autobiographical Memories. Cerebral Cortex, 19(11), 2579-2594.
2. Särkämö, T., Tervaniemi, M., & Huotilainen, M. (2013). Music and Stroke Recovery: The Rhythm of Rehabilitation. European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, 49(6), 897-904.
3. Alzheimer’s Association. (2020). Music and Memory. Retrieved from Alzheimer’s Association.