Neural and Behavioral Effects of Harp Music: Frontal Alpha Suppression and Reaction Times in Relation to Depression-Related Traits

Background/ObjectivesHarp music has long been used for comfort and healing, yet its neural mechanisms remain unclear. This study examined how major and minor harp sounds influence frontal alpha activity, mood, and reaction times, with a focus on depression-related individual differences.MethodsParticipants listened to 3-min major and minor harp excerpts while EEG alpha activity was recorded. Subjective ratings of arousal, stress, comfort, and mood were assessed, followed by auditory and visual reaction-time tasks.ResultsIndividuals with lower depression scores showed marked frontal alpha suppression during harp listening, which was associated with faster auditory reaction times. Those with higher depression scores exhibited consistently lower frontal alpha power with minimal modulation by harp sounds.ConclusionsFrontal alpha suppression during harp listening may reflect enhanced auditory attentional processing in individuals with lower depression levels. These findings suggest that depression-related traits shape neural responsiveness to harp music and should be considered when evaluating its therapeutic potential.