Dr. Anita Collins is an award-winning educator, researcher and author in the field of brain development and music learning. She is internationally recognized for her unique work in translating the scientific research of neuroscientists and psychologists to the everyday parent, teacher and student. In this episode, Anita discusses how she came to do the work she does now, what the research tells us about music education and cognitive development, the types of music education students need for this cognitive development, and more. Show Notes: 0:29 Introductions 2:00 Anita talks about her beginnings in music and the impact music had on her self-identity as a learner in addition to her reading ability. 6:07 Anita reflects on the other skills she developed as a child in the face of reading challenges. 8:04 Anita discusses her original career track and how that evolved with time. 11:00 Anita tells us the story of how her work teaching led to her research on music learning and cognitive development. 15:38 Anita explains the three major areas that music learning develops in children and adults. 22:17 Anita talks about the intricacies of the research process. 31:25 Anita explains what counts as "music education" in terms of cognitive development. 40:40 Anita discusses how music learning has assisted in the rewiring of brains in all manner of individuals across all ages. 45:44 Anita digs deeper into a compelling story from "The Music Advantage." 50:30 Anita talks about how the research and music education advocacy intertwine. 54:11 Anita talks about her website, Bigger Better Brains. For more, visit https://anitacollinsmusic.com and https://biggerbetterbrains.com. And for more about how music education is changing lives every day, visit us at https://southshorepianoschool.com.