Jazz Piano Training Modulates Neural Oscillations and Executive Functions in Older Adults

Abstract

Musical improvisation is one of the most complex forms of creative behavior, often associated with increased executive functions. However, most traditional piano programs do not include improvisation skills. This research examined the effects of music improvisation in a novel jazz piano training intervention on executive functions and neural oscillatory activity in healthy older adults. Forty adults were recruited and randomly assigned to either jazz piano training (n = 20, 10 females) or a control group (n = 20, 13 females). The jazz piano training program included aural skills, basic technique, improvisation, and repertoire with 30 hours of training over 10 days. All participants at pre- and post-testing completed a battery of standardized cognitive measures (i.e., processing speed, inhibition, verbal fluency), and neurophysiological data was recorded during resting state and a musical improvisation task using electroencephalography (EEG). Results showed significantly enhanced processing speed and inhibition performance for those who received jazz piano training as compared to controls. EEG data revealed changes in frontal theta power during improvisation in the training group compared to controls. Learning to improvise may contribute to cognitive performance.