“Beta wave is the most common type of activity found in our normal, conscious states.  These waves undulate from 18 to 40 cycles per second.  This activity is mostly recorded in the frontal and parietal regions of the cortex.”

“Alpha waves are commonly found when one is quiet and resting.  Music can induce this state and can activate a kind of creative daydreaming.  Usually the eyes are closed and there is no type of problem solving taking place.  The Alpha waves are formed in the frequency range of 8 to 12 cycles per second.”

“Theta waves are observed mainly in the temporal and pariental regions of children’s brains and occasionally in adults experiencing great stress from disappointment or frustration.  They can also be observed in states of high creativity.  These waves are formed between 4 and 7 cycles per second.”

“Delta waves are found in very deep states of sleep with the waves forming every 1 to 3 cycles per second.  Breathing is deep, the blood pressure decreases as well as the heartbeat and body temperature.  This state is unconscious and the least understood.  It is not likely to occur in a music class!”

[1]


 

[1] Don G. Campbell, Introduction to the Musical Brain, (Saint Louis, MO:  MMB Music, 1992), 16.