Music is one of the most powerful forces of all time for human connection, cognitive stimulation, and therapeutic introspection.

We’ve seen music help Alzheimer’s patients find their voice, children with speech disorders unlock new ways to communicate with rhythm and melody, and communities express their identity through song.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The cognitive, psychological, and mental benefits of music

• Why learning to play an instrument is one of the best things you can do for your brain

• The power of music as a means of connecting with others

• Therapeutic uses of music for patients living with neurodegenerative diseases

• The neuroscience of how we process sounds and perceive music

We’re absolutely thrilled to be speaking to THREE incredible experts on music and cognition today, discussing an element of the human experience that does so much for our brains without us even thinking about it.

In this episode, we’re joined by:

DR. ANI PATEL, PhD, a cognitive psychologist at Tufts University known for his research on music cognition and the neuroscience of music.

DR. CHARLES LIMB, MD, a surgeon, professor of otolaryngology, and musician at University of California in San Francisco. 

JONATHAN BISS, renowned pianist and author of the book ‘Unquiet’, which explores the intersection of music and mental health.

This is... Your Brain On Music.

‘Your Brain On’ is hosted by neurologists, scientists and public health advocates Ayesha and Dean Sherzai.

‘Your Brain On...’ is supported by the NEURO World Retreat, taking place in San Diego, September 2–5 2025: https://neuroworldretreat.com/

‘Your Brain On... Music’ • SEASON 4 • EPISODE 10

This is the Season 4 finale. We’ll be back in a few weeks with Season 5!

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LINKS

Dr. Ani Patel, PhD

At Tufts University: https://as.tufts.edu/psychology/people/faculty/aniruddh-patel 

The Sound Health Network: https://soundhealth.ucsf.edu/

Dr. Charles Limb, MD

At UCSF: https://ohns.ucsf.edu/charles-limb 

Dr. Limb’s TED Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/charles_limb_your_brain_on_improv

Jonathan Biss

Jonathan’s website: https://www.jonathanbiss.com/

On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonathan_biss_official/

Jonathan’s book, ‘Unquiet’: https://www.jonathanbiss.com/projects/unquiet 

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