Yet these improved skills did nothing to increase students' test scores or grades.
The researchers said previous studies that show a connection between music and better test grades fail to take into account the students' academic ability.
Don G. Campbell, the author of The Mozart Effect for Children, said he doubted a study could accurately uncover all the benefits of a child's participation in music or the arts.
"The Mozart effect is far more than one study can measure," Campbell said. "The rhythm, harmony and melodies of music all create different perceptions and sensations within different regions of the brain."
However, Campbell said he was pleased that scientific studies are starting to focus on the effect--which he has helped to make widely known--and able to demonstrate proven benefits.
The Harvard researchers have cautioned that their study should not be interpreted as evidence justifying the removal of arts education programs from schools. Winner said she has already heard from educators who worry that the study will have such an effect.
"We don't want arts to be pushed out [of schools]," Winner said.
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