The Latest Breaking News from Daniel Levitin

Music can lift mood, foster community and even rewire brains – but does it need to have a purpose?

The therapeutic role music can play is the focus of a string of new books and even an entire BBC radio station. But why can’t we just listen to music for music’s sake?

The Guardian - UK · Apr 14, 2025

‘She couldn’t walk, she couldn’t talk’: music therapy helped Joni Mitchell recover from a stroke – could it ward off depression and dementia too?

When his friend, the legendary songwriter, had a catastrophic stroke, neuroscientist Daniel Levitin put together a programme of music therapy. Now he’s recommending it for a whole range of conditions

The Guardian - UK · Jan 18, 2025

Music As Medicine by Daniel Levitin review – musician, heal thyself

In this fascinating book, the neuroscientist makes a strong case for the therapeutic force of music, describing ways in which it can be a beneficial part of recovery for patients

The Guardian - UK · Jan 14, 2025

Column: Brain-twisted or brain-washed — can crossword puzzles and word games sharpen memory?

LOS ANGELES -- It's a daily ritual for millions of people. You wake up, pour a cup of coffee, and eventually make your way to one or more crossword puzzles, word games and other brain twisters.

Los Angeles Times · Mar 14, 2023