MARCS Institute’s, Dr Giacomo Novembre, has invented a digital musicbox, which he is using to increase our understanding of music and cognition.

Music Cognition and Action Researcher, Dr Giacomo Novembre, has invented a digital musicbox, which he is using to increase our understanding of music and cognition or mental processes.

The music box is Dr Novembre's latest tool in researching music as a model to explore the connection or "coupling" of perception and action.

"This device will help our understanding of the origins of music – where does it come from? This device will allow us to study musical production and interaction in younger individuals, who haven't had the possibility of playing a musical instrument," Dr Novembre explains in the video.

"We are trying to understand what are the cognitive mechanisms that allow people to interact with one another and how to dynamically exchange information.

"The device can also be used trying to treat or understand when perception-action breaks down in disease and may be used for rehabilitation and to help develop social bonds through joint music-making".

For further information please download Dr Novembre's paper: November et al 2015 (opens in a new window)