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Dual Mechanisms of Music Effects on Working Memory: Timing-Dependent Neural and Autonomic Signatures of Arousal and Interference

Poster Session B - Sunday, March 8, 2026, 8:00 – 10:00 am PDT, Fairview/Kitsilano Ballroom

Atsuko Miyazaki¹; ¹The University of Tokyo

The effects of background music (BGM) on cognitive performance are still debated. We examined whether music influences working memory differently depending on when it is heard, comparing music played during task performance (BGM) with music heard before the task (Mozart condition). Neural and autonomic measures were combined. Twenty-nine healthy young adults (29.0 ± 4.5 years; 21 males) performed a Sternberg working memory task under six conditions: BGM (simultaneous listening) and Mozart (pre-task listening) × fast/slow tempo, plus a silent control. Prefrontal activity in the dorsolateral and dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (DLPFC, DMPFC) was measured using fNIRS. Heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (RMSSD), and ratings of arousal and concentration were collected. Data were analyzed using linear mixed-effects models. Accuracy showed a significant condition × tempo interaction (p = .017). Performance improved in the Mozart–Fast condition (+2.5%) but declined during BGM. DLPFC activity was higher during BGM than during the Mozart condition (p = .023), suggesting increased cognitive demands. DMPFC activity and HR were mainly influenced by tempo, with higher values for fast than slow music (p < .001; p = .003). Arousal and concentration ratings were weakly related in BGM–Fast but positively correlated in Mozart–Fast (r = .42, p < .0001), with corresponding changes in RMSSD. Music affects working memory in a timing-dependent manner. Music heard during task performance tends to interfere with processing, whereas music heard before the task enhances arousal in a way that supports concentration and performance. Fast-tempo music before a task may therefore benefit working memory.

Topic Area: EXECUTIVE PROCESSES: Working memory