Neural dynamics of predictive timing and motor engagement in music listening

Sci Adv. 2024 Mar 8;10(10):eadi2525. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adi2525. Epub 2024 Mar 6.

Abstract

Why do humans spontaneously dance to music? To test the hypothesis that motor dynamics reflect predictive timing during music listening, we created melodies with varying degrees of rhythmic predictability (syncopation) and asked participants to rate their wanting-to-move (groove) experience. Degree of syncopation and groove ratings are quadratically correlated. Magnetoencephalography data showed that, while auditory regions track the rhythm of melodies, beat-related 2-hertz activity and neural dynamics at delta (1.4 hertz) and beta (20 to 30 hertz) rates in the dorsal auditory pathway code for the experience of groove. Critically, the left sensorimotor cortex coordinates these groove-related delta and beta activities. These findings align with the predictions of a neurodynamic model, suggesting that oscillatory motor engagement during music listening reflects predictive timing and is effected by interaction of neural dynamics along the dorsal auditory pathway.

MeSH terms

  • Cell Membrane
  • Cerebral Cortex
  • Humans
  • Magnetoencephalography
  • Music*