The effects of music on short-term memory : a study comparing musicians and non-musicians

Abstract

This dissertation aimed at discovering whether different genres of music, specifically Pop and Instrumental music, have an effect on short-term memory. Furthermore, the differences between musicians and non-musicians in this respect were explored. Although research into this area exists, this research provides a local context and also branches out by comparing musicians and non-musicians. 60 participants, 30 non-musicians from the University of Malta and 30 musicians from Johann Strauss School of Music, volunteered for the study which consisted of three short memory tests. It was found that there was a significant decline in memory performance when pop music was playing, in contrast to the silent or instrumental conditions. There was no statistical significance found between instrumental and silent conditions, suggesting that students who use instrumental music to study are not hindering their results. Furthermore, when comparing the musician and non-musician groups, it was found that there was no statistical significance between the two, implying that whether one practices or studies music makes no difference when attempting to memorise with music. This research has many practical implications related to, for example, the educational setting as well as in the advertising and marketing industry. There are many further avenues to explore and this research may help start the process.