How Flute Music Helps Build the Brain of Premature Babies

Swiss neuroscientists have reported the positive effects of specially composed and interpreted music on the development of neural networks of premature babies.

The first results of a long-term study conducted by researchers at the University of Geneva (UNIGE) and the Geneva University Hospital (HUG) revealed that the brain of premature babies having listened this type of music is developing much better.

The most talked about music is the flute of Indian snake charmers (punji), according to researcher Laura Lordier, quoted in a joint press release from UNIGE and HUG.external link

The researchers asked Swiss composer Andreas Vollenweider to write three eight-minute sound environments for punji, harp and bells.

"The very restless children calmed down almost instantly, their attention was drawn to the music," said Lordier.

+ Watch this short video for more informationexternal link

The researchers say the brain of premature babies is still immature and that they are often overwhelmed by unrelated stimuli placed in intensive care. Many of these frail people will develop neuropsychological disorders later.

The first children enrolled in the project are now six years old. Scientists will now review their young patients for a full cognitive badessment, according to the press release. The objective is to determine if the positive results measured during the first weeks of life have been maintained.

The study, published for the first time in a scientific journalexternal link in the United States, was funded by the Swiss National Science Foundationexternal link and the Foundation Prim'Enfance based in Genevaexternal link.

To soothe the senses
Use music to help premature babies

Friederike Haslbeck sings for babies. But not all babies. As a music therapist, she helps premature babies and their parents relax and bond. As …

By Jeannie Wurz

SWI swissinfo.ch on Instagram

SWI swissinfo.ch on Instagram