Dr. Anita Collins

Dr. Collins will present a keynote address on July 11 2025

Neural Notes: How Learning Strings Shapes Our Brain Development

Learning a string instrument doesn’t just shape a student’s musical ability—it sculpts the brain in ways that support cognitive development, academic progress, social awareness, and stronger brain health. In this keynote, we’ll uncover the latest neuromusical research showing how the work you do in your string classroom is fundamentally building stronger, more connected brains.

This will be followed by two workshops in the afternoon of July 11 2025

Workshop #1: The biggest mistakes we make with parents of our students

Workshops # 2: String learning in challenging schools: tricks and tips

About Dr. Anita Collins

Dr. Anita Collins is a distinguished educator and author, celebrated for her impactful work in brain development and music education. Her seminal work, “The Music Advantage,” offers comprehensive guidance for parents and teachers on the role of musical learning in enhancing the developmental stages of children across all ages.

She is also the founder of Bigger Better Brains, a worldwide platform dedicated to advancing the understanding of music education through neuroscience. The initiative focuses on three core missions: to educate music educators globally on the brain science underpinning music learning, to empower them to disseminate this knowledge within their communities, and to enlighten parents, school leaders, and educational policymakers about the profound benefits of music education.

Anita’s global influence is noteworthy, particularly for her leadership in spearheading initiatives and releasing critical reports in Australia over the past five years. These efforts have markedly improved music education provision. Her influence has expanded to the UK and Ireland, where she collaborates with leading organizations to enhance the status and availability of music education for all.