The Mozart Effect: A quantitative EEG study

[Display omitted] •Mozart Effect is an enhancement of performance/change in neurophysiological activity.•Our results shows more alpha band EEG pattern after listening to Mozart’s music.•More alpha band is linked to memory, cognition and open mind to problem solving. The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of Mozart’s music on brain activity through spectral analysis of the EEG in young healthy adults (Adults), in healthy elderly (Elderly) and in elderly with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). EEG recording was performed at basal rest conditions and after listening to Mozart’s K448 or “Fur Elise” Beethoven’s sonatas. After listening to Mozart, an increase of alpha band and median frequency index of background alpha rhythm activity (a pattern of brain wave activity linked to memory, cognition and open mind to problem solving) was observed both in Adults and in Elderly. No changes were observed in MCI. After listening to Beethoven, no changes in EEG activity were detected. This results may be representative of the fact that said Mozart’s music is able to “activate” neuronal cortical circuits related to attentive and cognitive functions.