How is brass banding good for the brain?

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The Brass Band Podcast

Society & Culture

This time on The Brass Band Podcast, Sarah Baumann and Kenny Crookston are joined by a very special guest: Dr Anita Collins – a globally respected music educator, researcher and advocate. Known for her TED Talk What If Every Child Had Music Education From Birth?, Anita brings decades of expertise on how music-making transforms the brain.

Brass banding is so much more than notes on a page. Sarah and Kenny reflect on their own music education journeys. From Kenny’s start in the 1970s to Sarah’s more ‘traditional’ route, both explore how learning an instrument shaped not only their musicianship but also their outlook on life. Together, they consider the intergenerational nature of brass bands – from children sitting beside seasoned players, to parents rediscovering music alongside their own kids – and the powerful sense of community this fosters.

Anita then takes listeners deep into the science. She explains how playing an instrument physically reshapes the brain, boosting language skills, executive function, memory, resilience and social connection. From the way brass players’ heartbeats synchronise when breathing together, to the fascinating hidden link between music and surgical dexterity, this episode will change the way you think about practice and performance.

The episode also tackles advocacy: how to persuade schools, parents and communities that music isn’t a luxury, but a necessity. Anita shares real-world stories of schools using music to improve academic results, and medical faculties urging future surgeons to pick up an instrument. 

This one is packed full of essential tips and tools for musicians, students, teachers, parents and guardians alike!

For more information, visit our website at https://www.bbe.org.uk and follow us on social media. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share your favourite moments using the hashtag #BrassBandPodcast.

Thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England and Youth Music for their support. To hear any of the tracks played in this episode in full, head to www.wobplay.com.

Hosts: Kenny Crookston & Sarah Baumann (CEO & COO, Brass Bands England)

Episode Guests:

Music Featured (Courtesy of World of Brass): 

Podcast Producer: Peter Baumann