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A Supplement to the “Music and the Human Brain, 2nd Edition”

The topic of how auditory stimuli influence neuronal development is an area of increasing interest, spanning multiple fields such as neuroscience, music psychology, and developmental biology. In particular, the impact of dissonance, atonal music, and noise on the brain's development is a subject that has garnered significant attention. The effects of these stimuli on the fetal and early postnatal brain are critical for a variety of reasons. Not only does this research have the potential to inform prenatal care, but it also provides insights into the development of neurodevelopmental disorders and the ways environmental factors can shape cognition and behavior.

This paper seeks to review and synthesize current findings on how auditory experiences shape neuronal development, with a focus on research conducted in mice, rats, humans, and other animals. Previous studies have highlighted that different types of auditory stimuli—whether in terms of frequency, complexity, or type—can have divergent effects on brain development. These effects may include alterations in neuroplasticity, synaptic formation, and even overall brain structure. By understanding these mechanisms, we can better appreciate how early auditory exposure might contribute to the maturation of neural circuits and its long-term consequences on cognitive and sensory processing. In this review, we examine the ways these auditory inputs interact with developing brains, both in terms of their beneficial or detrimental effects, to help further our understanding of neurodevelopment and its associated factors.