Brainwaves and Biofeedback A Brief History--Implications for Music Research

Within the last three years, the quantity of brainwave and blofeedback research reports has increased to the point where it Is difficult to discern what trends may be important For the music therapist interested in knowing about the EEG and its relationship to music listening behavior, a brief Introduction and overview of brainwave research is presented. This article briefly describes the human brain, its functions and the nature of the electroencephalogram (EEG). The history of EEG technology and the linearity of research findings is related in a brief historical survey. Psychophyslological study is described and is utilized as an Introduction to the blofeedback movement and Its related literature. Though various areas of blofeedback study are delineated, the “EEG and and Attention” Is focused upon as the area of most potential interest to the therapist and educator. Since music as a stimulus is so important to the music therapist, the available research related to attentions to music stimuli, as measured by EEG techniques, Is reviewed. Questions are raised as to the best course of action for future research.