Embodiment and emotion
In their study of strong experiences of music, Grewe et al. (no. 51) found evidence of music’s impact
on two physiological variables, skin conductance response and heart rate. Another three papers (no.
53, 55, 56) report the bodily impact of music.
Recognition
Bigand et al. (no. 33) suggest the existence of a very fast route for recognition of voices and music.
They have not investigated the anatomical details, but show that excerpts of 250 msec are sufficient
for recognition of music^23 , and report that an excerpt of 25 msec may permit identification of a speak-
er’s voice.
Localization of brain functions
Networks
Numerous investigations suggest that music activates extensive networks, which integrate subcorti-
cal and cortical processes. Some networks function as loops that connect the involved brain regions
reciprocally. Wong et al. (no. 19) and Strait et al. (no. 30) uncover networks of expertise. Grahn (no.
2) suggests a neural loop that is engaged by beat perception.
A comparatively new tool for studying neural networks is the Diffusion Tensor Imaging tech-
nique (DTI). This technique is applied by Schlaug (no. 57) to produce images of nerve fiber connec-
tions in the brain.
Mirror neurons
The interaction of auditory and motor functions and the possible role of a human mirror neuron net-
work are in focus of studies by Chen et al. (no. 1), Koelsch (no. 56), and Fadiga et al. (no. 66).
Auditory brain stem response
Findings show that the brain stem is not a passive relay station; subcortical processing interacts dy-
namically with cortical processes. Kraus et al. (no. 79) point out that pitch, timbre and timing, which
are basic features of music, have distinct measurable subcortical representations. Strait et al. (no.
30) find enhanced auditory brain stem response in musicians.
Reliability of techniques
In two MEG studies, measurements of dipole strengths^24 contribute to improving localization of brain
activity (no. 5, 38).
3.4. Summary of research in NM I 2002, NM II 2005, and NM III 2008..
A considerable number of research results have been reported in the present chapter. The follow-
ing list summarizes a number of important achievements in auditory neuroscience, presented in the
three conferences 2002, 2005, and 2008. In this list, the emphasis is on investigations related to mu-
sic listening.
Pitch perception
Griffiths (NM I no. 3), Tramo et al. (NM II no. 15).
23 In Ways of Listening, Eric Clarke reports a similar observation. When you turn on the radio, and involuntarily hear
music, you can immediately identify the musical style (Clarke 2005:15-16).
24 Salmelin (2010:124-155) describes the method of dipole modeling in MEG.