So one of the activities that I did today was singing.
Explanation:
1. Control of the Vocal Cords
We have come to understand that among Primates, only humans have the ability to adjust the pitch of their vocal cords so that they are able to make certain musical signature or notes in a high pitch or put a stress on a word or sentence in order to give it a different context or meaning.
Neuroscientists have uncovered the fact that there is an area in the frontal lobe that is responsible for a human beings ability to control his vocal cords.
This region of the frontal lobe is called the bilateral dorsal laryngeal motor cortex (dLMC).
It is situated between the regions controlling the hand and mouth.
2. Whilst we are singing we are also listening to ourselves. (Auditory and Language Function)
The part of the brain that is responsible for this action that is, the auditory and language center is the Temporal Lobe.
3. As I sang, I tried to visualize the lyrics and the in some parts, the music score sheet. (Visualization)
The part of the brain which controls visualisation is called the Occipital Lobe which also houses the Visual Cortex. Amongst other functions, it enables us to recall visual perceptions.
4. Breathing
Mechanically, singing is made possible with breath control. Adjusting the vocal cords without pushing air through them is the equivalent of opening and closing a tap without water flowing through it.
The part of the brain that controls breathing is called: the Medulla Oblongata. It is situated at the lowest part of the brainstem and also controls other reflex actions such as the blood pressure, heartbeat etc.
5. Memory Recall
Because the songs that I was singing were from memory, the region of the brain which controls music memories, experiences and context is the Hippocampus. It is situated deep in the temporal lobe.
Cheers
