When you listen to music, multiple areas of your brain become engaged and active. But when you actually play an instrument, that activity becomes more like a full-body brain workout. What's going on? Educator Anita Collins explains the fireworks that go off in musicians' brains when they play and examines some of the long-term positive effects of this mental workout. (Directed by Sharon Colman Graham, narrated by Addison Anderson, music by Peter Gosling)

Anita Collins: How playing an instrument benefits your brain

How playing an instrument benefits your brain

Playing music is akin to a full-body workout for the brain, engaging multiple areas simultaneously for a rich cognitive exercise.

Musicians have a more robust corpus callosum, enhancing communication between brain hemispheres for improved problem-solving and creativity.

Playing music is a cerebral symphony, invigorating numerous brain areas and enhancing memory, problem-solving, and emotional analysis.