“Can anyone learn to play an instrument?”
Yes! It is generally possible for anyone to learn to play an instrument with sufficient practice and dedication. Some people may be able to pick up an instrument and start making music relatively quickly, while others may need to practice for many hours over an extended period of time before they are able to play with a high level of skill. In general, the key to becoming proficient at an instrument is to practice regularly and consistently, set achievable goals, and seek out guidance from a teacher or someone else who is experienced.
Learn more about this with our series “Music, Mind & Body”
Why does music have such an enormous impact on our minds and bodies? From its effect on our memories, to the science behind our favourite earworms and most heartfelt break-up songs, this series examines how music moves and changes us in unexpected ways.
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Dr Naomi Woo
Silence is one of the most important elements when writing music and silent compositions like John Cage’s 4’33” can transform our perspective of what music is and help us to develop a more nuanced understanding of the world.
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Dr Diana Omigie
Cognitive neuroscience is pushing boundaries and is now able to pinpoint specific signatures of the brain, differentiating between nuanced emotions like how we experience awe and beauty - vastly complex feelings that, until now, have been out of reach.
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Dr Victoria Williamson
Yes, earworms are annoying, but have you ever stopped to think what they reveal about our brains? They are the price we pay for an astounding relationship our minds and bodies share with music that lasts our entire lives.
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