Music and auditory-motor integration in the human brain

Abstract: This talk will describe brain imaging and stimulation studies aimed at understanding how auditory-motor representations for pitch and rhythm are encoded in the human brain.

Part of the Seminar course in Cognitive Psychology and Neuropsychology (PSY6407)

Bio: Dr. Penhune is a Full Professor and Chair, Psychology, Concordia University and a BRAMS member. Her research is focused on understanding the plastic changes in the human brain related to motor learning and expertise. One line of research uses structural and functional MRI to examine the role of motor networks in learning and memory for fine motor skills. She is particularly interested in identifying brain regions involved in learning different movement parameters, in auditory-motor integration and timing, and in the contribution of individual differences in brain structure to the ability to learn new skills. The second line of work comprises studies of musical rhythm processing and studies in individuals with musical training. Very importantly, this line of research includes investigation into the interaction of development and experience through studying the impact of musical training at different ages.