The Therapeutic Effects of Singing in Neurological Disorders

Journal

Music Perception

Year

2010

Abstract

MUSIC MAKING (PLAYING AN INSTRUMENT OR SINGING) is a multimodal activity that involves the integration of auditory and sensorimotor processes. The ability to sing in humans is evident from infancy, and does not depend on formal vocal training but can be enhanced by training. Given the behavioral similarities between singing and speaking, as well as the shared and distinct neural correlates of both, researchers have begun to examine whether singing can be used to treat some of the speech-motor abnormalities associated with various neurological conditions. This paper reviews recent evidence on the therapeutic effects of singing, and how it can potentially ameliorate some of the speech deficits associated with conditions such as stuttering, Parkinson's disease, acquired brain lesions, and autism. By reviewing the status quo, it is hoped that future research can help to disentangle the relative contribution of factors to why singing works. This may ultimately lead to the development of specialized or "gold-standard" treatments for these disorders, and to an improvement in the quality of life for patients. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]

Music and Health Institute Terms

Autism Spectrum Disorder; Cognitive Abilities; Neurodegenerative Disorders; Parkinson's Disease; Quality of Life; Recreative Music Methods; Singing a Song; Traumatic Brain Injury

Indexed Terms

Intervention; Speech; Stuttering; Singing; Quality of life; Brain damage; Musical performances; Musicians & conductors; New York; United States; Heart rate; Parkinson's disease; Autism; Neurological disorders; Neurological disorder; Disorder

Study Type

Editorial, Opinions, Position Papers

Document Type

Article

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