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New Study Finds the Brain is Biased Towards Musical Expertise

By: Hunter McEcahern

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – A University of Arkansas professor has discovered how people can overcome bias about musical experience.

Distinguished Professor of music theory and music cognition, Elizabeth Margulis, along with researchers from other universities found that study participants enjoyed music more from musicians that were “professionals” compared to the music from “students.”

The study results showed that the brain responds differently to music when the individual is told that the musician is either a “professional” or a “student.”

The study showed that the participants paid closer attention when they listen to the “professionals.”

The researchers found that the brain bias can be overcome through conscious effort.