By Eric Altschuler MD PhD

The Neuroscience of Bach’s Music: Perception, Action, and Cognition Effects on the Brain is a comprehensive study of Johann Sebastian Bach’s music through the lens of neuroscience, examining neuroscience using Bach’s music as a tool. This book synthesizes cognitive neuroscience, music theory, and musicology to provide insights into human cognition and perception. It also explores how a neuroscience perspective can improve listening and performing experiences for Bach’s music. Written by a physician-neuroscientist recognized for scholarly articles on Bach’s music, this book uses specific examples to explore neuroscience across Bach’s compositions.The book is structured to discuss the brain’s action, perception, and cognition as connected to specific Bach concertos, tones, notes, and performances. Two guest contributors provide insight into exact mathematical, or topologic, and music theoretic aspects of Bach’s music with implications for cognitive neuroscience.

Links specific features and unique characteristics of Bach’s music to perceptual and cognitive neuroscience processes

Requires only an interest in music or basic music training

Accompanied by a companion website with music examples mentioned in the book