The Brain Song

Singing in the Brain, a set of animated videos, outlines basics of neuroscience in relation to how we sing. Heidi Moss Erickson combines her background in both science and music to demonstrate how the brain functions in our music making.

In the four videos in the series, Moss Erickson lays out how our brain creates calculations and predictions of our motor system before we carry out an action. She lays out practical practice methods that we can use to learn vocal music more efficiently. One method is by fretting, or creating patterns around difficult intervals. Another is by making space for intentional rest so that the brain can consolidate information.

The videos point to an evolving way to look at vocal technique and pedagogy. As we continue to uncover more about the brain and the way it functions, the more we can align the information to how we teach. By having a praxis informed by science, we can more efficiently use our vocal mechanisms.

Clearly here at the Research Riff we want to be sure that the latest research can be accessible for all. Moss Erickson’s use of the social media platform of YouTube to show how even the most recent findings in neuroscience and anthropology can be presented in a fun way. You can also check out her website at www.heidimosserickson.com .