This National Science Foundation (NSF) Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences (CFDA 47.075) project grant awarded to the University of Rochester for $619,951 supports research to understand how the human brain processes and represents song. The project leverages advanced experimental methods like functional MRI and intracranial recordings to characterize the neural populations that selectively respond to singing versus other auditory stimuli like speech and music. It also develops improved statistical techniques to differentiate neural responses to the distinct melodic, rhythmic, and speech components of song. This interdisciplinary research, which engages high school and undergraduate students, aims to fundamentally advance the understanding of the brain mechanisms underlying song perception. The research findings will be disseminated through scientific publications, media, and museum exhibits to foster continued interest and support for this line of scientific inquiry.
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