Date
8-29-2025
Department
School of Music
Degree
Doctor of Music Education (DME)
Chair
Rebecka E Rose
Keywords
music, education, assessment, cello performance, adult learners, spatial orientation, brain function
Disciplines
Education | Music
Recommended Citation
Diaz Gamero, Circe, "The Impact of Cello Training on Spatial Orientation Abilities in Adult Learners" (2025). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 7363.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/7363
Abstract
Academic discourse lacks exploration of the effects that musical training during adulthood has on spatial orientation abilities through their connection between cognitive science and music education. This study seeks to address this knowledge gap through research that evaluates cello training effects on spatial orientation abilities in adult learners. The rising interest in non-medicine-based methods for brain function improvement and recovery establishes the urgent need to research possible cognitive advantages that occur when adults participate in music education. This research study adopted a convergent mixed-methods approach that studied adults with minimal musical background in an eight-week structured cello training program, aiming to develop their musical abilities and potentially enhance their spatial orientation skills. Measures of spatial capability changes through pre- and post-intervention assessments are supported by qualitative interview data that reveal the participants' experiences with their musical development throughout the study. Findings from this study suggested that cello training improved spatial orientation abilities in adult learners, contributing to enhanced cognitive development and supporting the inclusion of musical training in educational and therapeutic practices. Therefore, this study addressed a gap in the literature concerning the long-term cognitive and psychosocial benefits of music education for adults over the age of twenty-five. By examining this underrepresented age group, this study demonstrated that sustained music learning can enhance cognitive flexibility, emotional well-being, and overall quality of life, underscoring the need for broader inclusion of adults in both research and policy related to music education and cognitive development.
