Synchronizing Moving and Listening Behavior with Brainwaves via Rhythmic Hand Drumming

Background: The ability to synchronize movements with sounds is a complex behavior dependent on predicting the occurrence of future sounds. Simulation theories of musical beat perception posit the motor system contributing predictive information to the processing of auditory streams.

Methods and findings: In this study, we compared neural responses while subjects drummed or listened to rhythmic hand drumming. It was hypothesized that if the motor system is involved in auditory perception, then a similar pattern of motor system engagement via the beta band (20-30 Hz) of brain oscillations during both movement and listening activities would occur. We found evidence in partial support of the hypothesis, though results must be judged carefully in the context of past work based on finger tapping, given the relative complexity in motor programs for drumming versus tapping. We also found differences in mu rhythm (8-13 Hz) power while drumming, which is associated with drumming expertise.

Conclusions: Experienced drummers exhibited a significantly reduced amount of mu power while drumming compared to listening to drums, whereas novice drummers enhanced their mu power while playing drums, relative to listening. This suggests a more efficient use of cortical resources by experienced brains.

Author(s): Matt D. Schalles

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