Musical training has been shown in studies to improve brain structure and function. For those who begin at a young age, it can also improve long-term memory and lead to better brain development.

According to new research from the University of Montreal, musicians are also more mentally alert.

"The more we understand about the impact of friday night funkin music on fundamental sensory processes, the more we can apply musical training to individuals who may have slower reaction times," said lead researcher Simon Landry.

"We know that as people get older, their reaction times slow down," Landry explained. "So, if we know that playing a musical instrument improves reaction times, perhaps playing an instrument will be beneficial to them."

Landry previously discovered that musicians have quicker auditory, tactile, and audio-tactile reaction times. Musicians' statistical use of multisensory information is also altered. This means they are better at integrating input from different senses.

"Music probably does something unique," says University of Westminster neuropsychologist Catherine Loveday. "Because of our emotional connection with it, it stimulates the brain in a very powerful way."

Playing an instrument, as opposed to brain games, is a rich and complex experience. This is due to the fact that it integrates information from the senses of vision, hearing, and touch, as well as fine movements. This can cause long-term changes in the brain. These can be used in the business world.