"Notes & Neurons”: Music for Brain Health

Neurodegenerative diseases are among the major medical challenges of the 21st century. At the same time, scientific findings show that the onset or progression of dementia may be influenced and delayed by certain lifestyle factors.

The WHO cites cognitive activity, physical exercise, and social engagement, among other things, as important factors—areas that are addressed in a unique way through actively making and listening to music.

Music challenges the brain in many ways, activates various neural processes, and can engage cognitive, emotional, and social skills. But can music actually help prevent dementia? The “Notes and Neurons” concert series explores this question through an interdisciplinary collaboration between musicians, medical professionals, and neuroscientists.

Spanning a total of six concerts, the series combines captivating live music with science presented in an accessible way and direct audience participation. The result is an extraordinary concert experience in which current research is not only explained but can also be experienced firsthand.

During the intermission, attendees also have the opportunity to voluntarily participate in scientific studies—including mobile MRI scans and digital memory tests. In this way, “Notes and Neurons” forges an exciting connection between the concert hall and the research laboratory, bringing scientific findings to life in a vivid and accessible manner.

The musical arrangements are by Lukas and Samuel Roth, whose creative work makes a significant contribution to the unique character of the concert series.

Cast

• Prof. Dr. Joachim Schultze, Lecture
• Prof. Dr. Alexander Radbruch, lecture
• Prof. Dr. Bernd Weber, lecture
• Prof. Dr. Daniela Sammler, lecture
• UKB Choir
• UKB Project Orchestra
• German Neuro-Orchestra