The ºÚÁϱ¬ÁÏ School of Music, NEA Research Labs’ Cognition and Coordination in Music Across the Lifespan has received a grant from the National Association for Music Merchants (NAMM) Foundation to support research exploring how music can contribute to cognitive health and well-being among veterans.
As a NAMM Foundation grant recipient, USF is collaborating with researchers from the University of South Carolina and the University of Texas at San Antonio to examine the effects of band ensemble participation on memory performance. The study is conducted in partnership with the Music for Veterans National Association (MVNA) and is designed to better understand how music-making supports veterans across cognitive, social, and emotional well-being.
The research invites veterans fluent in English, without significant hearing or vision loss, age 18 and older from the Tampa Bay community to participate, whether they have prior musical experience or are entirely new to music. Participants will complete a one-time session lasting approximately 2.5 hours, which includes a series of the following measures: paper and pencil, computerized, and a non-invasive, dry wireless EEG. Upon completion, participants will receive a $50 Publix gift card in appreciation of their time.
Beyond individual measures, the long-term goal of the study is to understand how ensemble-based music participation contributes to memory, psychosocial, and physiological health. a sense of community among veterans. Researchers are also examining how different levels of musical engagement influence outcomes, with the broader aim of supporting musicianship, reducing suicidal ideation, and enhancing overall well-being.
This research reflects a shared commitment to service, community, and contribution, recognizing veterans not only for their past service, but for the insight and perspective they bring to advancing knowledge and improving lives through music.
The study will continue through October 2026 and has been approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB).
To participate in the study, contact Dr. Jennifer Bugos @ 813-974-2753 or bugosj@usf.edu.
USF Research Study #009227