Staten Island Pediatrician, Dr. Michael Gabriel, Responds to Study That Indicates Musical Training Improves Executive Brain Function

BOHEMIA, N.Y., July 4, 2014 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- Dr. Michael Gabriel of GPM Pediatrics, a Staten Island pediatrics clinic, responds to an article, which discusses recent research that indicates children with regular music training have improved executive brain functions.

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According to the Medical News Today article, "Musical training 'improves executive brain function" published on June 22, a recent study used "functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to analyze the brains of 15 children ages 9-12 who were musically trained, alongside 12 children of the same age who were not musically trained…in addition, the researchers compared the fMRI scans of 15 adults who were active professional musicians with those of 15 adults who were not professional musicians," states the article. In order to minimize the difference in family demographic factors, the researchers matched the participants among parental education, job status, household income and by IQ.

Results of the study revealed that "during the cognitive tests, both the musically trained children and the adult musicians showed improvements within numerous areas of executive function, compared with the children who were not musically trained and non-musician adults."

Dr. Michael Gabriel, of GPM Pediatrics, was intrigued by this research. "We have known for awhile that musical training in children can have positive results in academic performance and children's behavior, but the implications of this research show that music may have a much greater impact on children's development then we previously thought."

Dr. Gabriel asks parents to encourage their children to play musical instruments in school and if financially possible to provide private musical training.  "Although more research on the topic needs to be done, this study shows that there is a great need to protect musical education in schools. Musical training may just as important as traditional subjects."

GPM Pediatrics provides comprehensive pediatric care to children throughout the New York area with practices both in Brooklyn and Staten Island. Our board certified pediatricians and experienced staff help provide a very warm and nurturing environment for both you and your children. Our approach combines the latest treatment methods with the personal attention you should expect from your doctor. Simply put, we understand the importance of communication and trust and we are earning that trust one family at a time.

Media Contact: Scott Darrohn, GPM Pediatrics, 855-347-4228, [email protected]

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SOURCE GPM Pediatrics