21st Lecture-Concert on the Biology of Music
April 19, 2010

Jessica Phillips-Silver, PhD
Postdoctoral Fellow,
International Laboratory for BRAin, Music and Sound Research (BRAHMS), McGill University / Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC
(biography)

Abstract

Scientific theories on the biological basis of music highlight the significance of synchronization of movement with others and with music. Studies support that musical synchronization is a multisensory experience that develops early in life, and is a fundamental part of our perceptual, cognitive and social experience. Current findings in neuroscience support the role of a complex interacting network of brain regions that are recruited for music perception and performance. I will highlight research which demonstrates that our ability to « feel the beat » develops early in infancy, and relies on a strong interaction between auditory and movement sensory systems. I will propose that this early-developing multisensory process provides the basis for our ability to synchronize our movement with music when we dance. I will then raise the question: “Does everyone have rhythm?” This and other questions will be open for interactive discussion.