Genetics of Normal and Abnormal Music Perception

The aim of the project is to obtain novel information about the role of genetic and environmental factors on the development of musical abilities (music perception, singing), both in in the normal population and in persons with congenital amusia. A large sample of Finnish twins from the Finntwin16 project are studied using an online music perception test and a subgroup of the participants will also assessed behaviourally with auditory and cognitive tests and questionnaires.

The project is collaboration between the Cognitive Brain Research Unit (CBRU), Institute of Behavioural Sciences, University of Helsinki; Hjelt Institute, University of Helsinki, and International Laboratory for Brain, Music and Sound Research (BRAMS), University of Montreal. The project is funded by the Academy of Finland and Paolo Foundation.