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Since the 1990s, the Mozart effect has fascinated researchers, teachers, and learners. It has long been claimed that listening to Mozart's music can make you smarter, improve concentration, and stimulate memory. But is this really true? Is it a scientifically proven tip or just an appealing myth?

The Mozart effect: an initial enthusiastic study

In 1993, a team of researchers led by Frances Rauscher published a study that would cause quite a stir. After listening to Mozart's Sonata for Two Pianos in D Major, K. 448, participants showed a temporary improvement in their performance on spatial reasoning tests. The media seized on the discovery and the idea that “Mozart makes you smarter” quickly spread around the world. 

Schools and even some governments encouraged listening to classical music to promote academic success. In the state of Georgia, Zell Miller even proposed a special budget to provide every child with a classical music CD.

Subsequent studies: mixed results

Very quickly, numerous studies attempted to replicate the experiment or expand the selection of music. The journal Psychological Science explains that any pleasant music can have the same effect, as it improves our emotional state. In one study, some subjects were even asked to listen to a Stephen King book. Ultimately, the results are far from uniform. While some studies confirm slight positive effects, others find no significant difference.

Most researchers now agree that the Mozart effect is neither magical nor lasting: it is more likely to be a mood-boosting and alertness-stimulating effect, as explained in a meta-analysis published in Scientific American. In other words, listening to pleasant music may simply put us in a better frame of mind for learning or problem-solving.

The Mozart effect: how does it relate to language learning?

Learning a second language, as offered by Global Lingua courses, requires concentration, memory, and motivation. The science of learning shows that these factors are influenced by our emotional state and level of attention. In this sense, listening to music we enjoy—whether it's Mozart, jazz, or pop—can create a climate conducive to studying. 

However, the key remains regular practice, authentic exposure to the language, and the use of appropriate teaching methods.

This is what our teachers offer in courses tailored to all needs:

• online English courses for fast progress,
• personalized French courses to meet individual needs,
• language training for businesses tailored to professionals.

The real lesson of the Mozart effect

The story of the Mozart effect illustrates a truth in education: there are no miraculous shortcuts. Studying before bed, exercising before lessons, knowing your learning style... These appealing myths may be motivating for a while, but it is proven strategies—spaced repetition, interaction, personalized feedback—that build lasting results. Music, on the other hand, can remain an excellent support tool, creating a motivating atmosphere and making learning more enjoyable.

👉 At Global Lingua, we believe that effective learning is based above all on personalization and active practice, while incorporating tips that promote concentration and motivation.