The perceptual and cognitive processes involved in learning to play the piano are examined as sources of confusion and problems which might be encountered by the young learning disabled piano student. The paper is reported to be based on personal observations during private piano instruction, published and unpublished literature, and a summer…

Discusses the importance of applying computational modeling and artificial intelligence techniques to music cognition and computer music research. Recommends three uses of microworlds to trim computational theories to their bare minimum, allowing for better and easier comparison. (CFR)

Reports on an interview with Frances Rauscher, a research psychologist and musician who has studied the effects of music on the brain. Maintains that students who have studied music have enhanced spatial reasoning. Recommends that music education begin at younger ages. (CFR)