Research Updates

Here at Bigger Better Brains we believe that through educating yourself, you can then educate and affect positive change in your community.

With all of the research in the field of neuromusical science, our BBB Research section serves as a content hub for you. We regularly share findings and break down the latest research to educate and inspire discussion. We hope you enjoy this page on our website and share BBB news with your colleagues, parents and students.

Anita Collins 28/7/25 Anita Collins 28/7/25

Friends Who Play Together, Stay Together

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.

Anita Collins 14/7/25 Anita Collins 14/7/25

Can the right music help students with ADHD focus better?

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?

Anita Collins 8/7/25 Anita Collins 8/7/25

How Music Learning Supports Sound Processing in Neurodivergent Learners

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.

Anita Collins 24/6/25 Anita Collins 24/6/25

Don’t Let the Break Break the Habit: Holiday Music Learning Strategies

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.

Anita Collins 10/6/25 Anita Collins 10/6/25

Show them who they can be

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.

Anita Collins 23/5/25 Anita Collins 23/5/25

You Already Know How to Advocate

What if the skills you use to lead a classroom were the exact same ones you need to advocate for your music program?

Anita Collins 20/5/25 Anita Collins 20/5/25

The Biggest Mistakes We Make With Parents

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?

Anita Collins 13/5/25 Anita Collins 13/5/25

Understanding the Brain, in Every Language

BBB resources are now available in multiple languages—because every brain deserves the chance to learn music.

Anita Collins 5/5/25 Anita Collins 5/5/25

Do we teach melody as deeply as we teach meaning?

Melody isn’t just about pitch—it’s how we communicate emotion, intention, and meaning in music and speech alike.

Anita Collins 1/5/25 Anita Collins 1/5/25

The chill factor: Music’s hidden superpower

Anita Collins 28/4/25 Anita Collins 28/4/25

Is “perfect pitch” really just about practise?

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?