Abstract

Background: Music has been shown to be beneficial in alleviating behavioral symptoms of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. There is evidence that music and musical training have the added potential to facilitate brain plasticity and protection against neuronal deterioration. Objectives: This study examines the effects of music training on behavioral and cognitive symptoms of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Methods: Intervention group received violin lessons and “passive” music therapy (listening to music played by therapist). Control group received passive music therapy only. Results: Subjects displayed the ability to learn the violin both explicitly and implicitly and displayed qualitative improvements in behavioral and cognitive symptoms. Size of the study was conservative and not aimed towards analyzing data of statistical significance. Conclusion: This study successfully establishes violin training as a potential treatment for the behavioral and cognitive symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.