In 1993, researchers at the University of California, Irvine conducted some research which suggested that listening to music by Mozart had some effect on the higher order functions of the brain. This caused some controversy at the time (even to this day) and this result has given birth to an entire industry of Mozart products aimed at somehow enhancing the IQ of babies (our house included).

The trouble is that the initial research results have not been replicated. However this is not to say that playing Mozart is not without merit aside from the pleasure of listening to one of the great composers of all time. From a Speed Thinking point of view we can conclude in the words of Professor Bill Thompson of Macquarie University,

‘Fast tempo music (like Mozart), leads to an increase in arousal, and increases in arousal are associated with increased speed of processing.’  There are other factors involved e.g. extroversion vs introversion but as a general principle this seems to be the case.

I suspect there is something about Mozart’s music which is not only a faster tempo but the complexity yet simplicity of his music that makes the difference. So trainers, facilitators or anyone that works with groups make sure that you come prepared with your array of Mozart!

As an aside, there is some evidence that music lessons can enhance IQ in kids and with adults keep our brain alive and active. Also that playing faster tempo music has a minor effect on exercise intensity.

What music do you play?

Ken Hudson