<p>There is some really interesting research on how music affects the brain. Most of the research is pretty primative and it is always difficult to determine causation. Do people who like music have some common neurobiology or does music training alter neurobiology? Probably some of both. In any case, there are significant correlations between music (or music training) and mathematical ability. Also there is a correlation between music and multitasking abilities. Musicians tend to be good at reading body language. At one time I had a collection of literature references. Some of the research makes interesting reading but most is scientifically pretty much speculative. </p>
<p>If this speculation fascinates you, you might want to read This is Your Brain on Music.</p>