How music training affects brain development and health outcomes

Effects of Music Training on Neurodevelopment and Associated Health Outcomes

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · NIH-11102011

This study is looking at how learning music can help the brains of Hispanic kids aged 6-8 from underserved communities grow and develop, comparing those who take music lessons to those who don’t, over two years.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11102011 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of systematic music training on brain development, particularly focusing on Hispanic youth from underserved communities. It involves a randomized controlled trial where children aged 6-8 will participate in either a music training program or a control program that does not emphasize music. The study will utilize neuroimaging and behavioral assessments to evaluate improvements in brain inhibition control and other cognitive functions over a 24-month period. By examining these effects, the research aims to provide clearer evidence on the benefits of music training for brain development.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Hispanic children aged 6-8 from underserved communities.

Not a fit: Children outside the specified age range or those not from underserved communities may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance cognitive development and inhibitory control in children through music training.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have suggested potential benefits of music training on brain development, but this research aims to provide more definitive evidence through rigorous methodologies.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.