ABSTRACT
Introduction:
Percussionists stand out for their expertise in rhythm, with the network for musical rhythm (NMR) serving a vital neurological function in their improvisation, which is deeply rooted in comprehensive musical
knowledge. Our
research examines the central representations of various improvisation tactics used by percussionists and investigates the interactions between the NMR and other relevant neural networks.
Methods:
Twenty-five percussionists participated in
functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) sessions, which included two cognitive
strategies of improvisation. Structural improvisation (SIMP) emphasized rhythmic patterns, while free improvisation (FIMP) focused on musical spontaneity. Sight-
reading scenario served as the reference condition. Paired t-tests were utilized for comparative analyses.
Results:
The findings revealed a dynamic interplay characterized by increased activity in the
executive control network and NMR, along with decreased activity in the
default mode network during SIMP. During FIMP, heightened activity was observed in the
executive control network, NMR, limbic, and
memory systems. In both SIMP vs. sight-
reading and FIMP vs. sight-
reading comparisons, the visual network's activity decreased, a trend also observed in the comparative
analysis of FIMP vs. SIMP.
Discussion:
In SIMP, percussionists leverage external rhythmic signals, resulting in heightened NMR and ECN activity and reduced DMN activity. In contrast, FIMP is characterized by a rise in activity within the NMR, ECN,
limbic system,
memory system, and
reward system, underscoring the vital
roles of
motivation and
memory in the rapid
production of spontaneous musical ideas within set frameworks. The diminished activity in the visual network during FIMP compared to SIMP suggests less reliance on visual stimuli in FIMP. These findings suggest that various improvisational tactics may engage different
neural pathways.
