I got rhy-thm?

Do you or don’t you? Do you know someone who seems to have rhythm coming out of every part or pore and other people who couldn’t walk to a beat if their life depended on it?
How much is innate and how much is learned? Rhythm is becoming one of the most researched areas in the neuromusical field. The reason for this focus is that it is illuminating a fundamental function in the human brain, the efficient, syncronised and faster transference of information.
This study seeks to find the very place where rhythm ability could be located in the brain. They are looking specifically in the corpus callosum, the fibrous bridge between the two brain hemispheres. This bridge was one of the first areas of the brain that was found to be highly developed in musicians.
The study found that “the anterior parts of the corpus callosum may reflect innate differences in the processing of the rhythmic aspects of music”. But, with all questions in cognitive development, can that innate difference be influenced by experience and education?
Making music together does more than build skills—it builds friendships.
Research shows ensemble experiences activate empathy and connection, helping students feel they belong. From choirs to community bands, music is where friendships grow.
Founder of Bigger Better Brains, Dr Anita Collins, receives hundreds of emails from students around the world asking questions about neuromusical research. So she decided to record a short video about the most asked questions she has received.
We often assume background music helps students concentrate—but new research suggests it’s not one-size-fits-all, especially for learners with ADHD. This study explores how different sounds—classical, preferred music, binaural beats, and medication—affect focus. The takeaway? Familiar, enjoyable music may support attention better than trendy brain hacks. What could this mean for your classroom or studio?
What if music could help neurodivergent students focus, listen, and communicate more easily? Music learning strengthens how the brain processes sound, supports attention and memory, and helps students filter speech in noisy settings. For learners with ADHD, autism, or sensory challenges, it offers a structured, motivating way to build essential skills.
A 2020 study from Brazil found that kids aged 8–12 who joined twice-weekly group music sessions outperformed their peers in reading, writing, and math. They also showed better attention and memory. Led by Projeto Guri, the program proves what many music educators feel: consistent, inclusive music-making fuels broader learning.
Some students don’t light up when the music soars—and it’s not about effort or attitude. Neuroscience is uncovering how individual brain wiring can shape emotional responses to music, including a rare condition called specific musical anhedonia. As educators, this challenges us to broaden our lens: what if joy in music doesn’t look the same for everyone?
Holidays don’t have to mean a full stop to music learning. This blog explores how short, simple strategies—like mental practice, travel-friendly plans, and encouraging messages—can help students stay connected over the break. Plus, find tools and inspiration to support motivation and communication all season long.
Recruitment in 2025 is about more than filling seats—it’s about consistently advocating for music learning as essential to student growth and wellbeing. Families want to see the long-term value, and students need connection and purpose. Ongoing, intentional messaging leads to stronger recruitment, stability, and lasting impact.
The “Wanna Be Like…” poster series helps music teachers show students how learning an instrument connects to success beyond the music room. This blog introduces the series, invites teachers to contribute new role models, and offers a free download of five brand-new posters.
Even toddlers can groove to the beat—this study reveals that young children naturally adapt their movements to changing rhythms, especially when music is playful and fun.
Music isn’t just an artform—it’s a brain booster. This post explores how music primes the brain for learning by enhancing focus, memory, and emotional connection. For music teachers, it’s a reminder that every lesson is more than musical—it’s neurological.
Practice works best when it feels like play.
This article explores what really motivates kids to practise music—highlighting the power of choice, enjoyment, and small wins over pressure or routine. A must-read for music educators rethinking how we support practice.
What if perfect pitch isn’t a rare gift you’re born with, but a skill your brain can grow—shaped not by fate, but by how you listen, learn, and tune in over time?
BBB resources are now available in multiple languages—because every brain deserves the chance to learn music.
Melody isn’t just about pitch—it’s how we communicate emotion, intention, and meaning in music and speech alike.
What if perfect pitch isn’t a rare gift you’re born with, but a skill your brain can grow—shaped not by fate, but by how you listen, learn, and tune in over time?
Free Easter campaign download with posters and social tiles to help students understand the value of music learning.