BBC story: 'Brain 'closes eyes' to hear music'

[ssmith]

Interesting!
-- and scientific proof that some people have 'golden ears' (or brains)??

[janneman]

It is interesting, but hardly new. Similar effects have been documented over several decades. It's not just the brain that shuts down non-essential tasks, we do it physically as well, when we close our eyes when concentrating on listening .

And it's not just hearing versus vision, but ANY task, for which we have to concentrate to do the best we can, takes 'brain power' away from other lower priority tasks.

The reverse is also true. Like the example mentioned above, if you have a lot of visual distraction, you can concentrate less well on listening. One more case for blind listening tests!

Jan Didden

[ssmith]

true, though what I thought was new was the bit about the differences between trained musicians and the rest?

[jackinnj]

Originally posted by janneman
It is interesting, but hardly new. Similar effects have been documented over several decades. It's not just the brain that shuts down non-essential tasks, we do it physically as well, when we close our eyes when concentrating on listening .

When in doubt, just hire the blonde.

[janneman]

Originally posted by ssmith
true, though what I thought was new was the bit about the differences between trained musicians and the rest?

Not sure, but I think not. Anything can be trained for. When you start taking driving lessons you need all your brain power to keep the car in the road. After some years, you can drive, make phone calls and and keep an eye on the kids in the back all at the same time.

Jan Didden

[janneman]

Originally posted by jackinnj


When in doubt, just hire the blonde.

??????

Jan Didden

[KBK]

Actually the case would be for long term, RELAXED listening tests.

Not specifically double blind but relaxed and long term, as well.

Take the pressure out of the equation. Then it works.