Fun Facts About Music and Neurodivergent Minds

Fun Facts About Music and Neurodivergent Minds

Music and neurodivergent individuals share a fascinating connection that goes beyond entertainment.

Did you know that people with autism are more likely to have perfect pitch, meaning they can recognize musical notes without a reference?

Some neurodivergent individuals experience synesthesia, where they “see” colors when they hear music—just like composer Franz Liszt, who described chords as shades of blue and red.

Studies suggest that drumming can help people with ADHD improve focus and impulse control by engaging their brains in rhythmic patterns.

Classical music, especially Mozart’s compositions, has been shown to reduce epileptic seizures, a phenomenon sometimes called the “Mozart Effect.”

Many famous musicians, including Glenn Gould and Erik Satie, displayed traits linked to autism or ADHD, which may have shaped their creative genius.

Even dyslexia and music are connected—learning an instrument can improve reading and language skills by strengthening auditory processing. Whether through therapy, creativity, or self-expression, music offers a unique bridge between neurodivergent minds and the world around them.

Whether through therapy, creativity, or self-expression, music offers a unique bridge between neurodivergent minds and the world around them.

Perfect pitch: Autism’s rare gift. (n.d.). Kennedy Krieger Institute. https://www.kennedykrieger.org/stories/interactive-autism-network-ian/perfect-pitch-autism-rare-gift

Silvertant, N. E. N. R. &. E. (2024, August 27). Autism & synesthesia. Embrace Autism. https://embrace-autism.com/autism-and-synesthesia/

Robleh-Davies, L. (2022, September 28). Why Mozart’s music shows anti-seizure effect - Epilepsy Action. Epilepsy Action. https://www.epilepsy.org.uk/news/study-sheds-light-on-why-mozarts-music-shows-anti-seizure-effect