Research

The Impact of Rhythm on Language and Reading Development

At CogniMusica, our teaching is grounded in ongoing scientific research. One of the key research projects informing our work is our Founder and CEO Justyna Skop-Wach’s ongoing PhD at the University of Dundee, which explores how rhythm in music can support language and reading development in children.

Grounded in cognitive neuroscience, the project investigates how music and language share underlying processing mechanisms - particularly those related to rhythm, timing, and attention. By bridging research and practice, this work directly informs CogniMusica’s approach to music education, supporting the development of evidence-based methods that enhance both musical and cognitive development.

Study 1: Effects of Rhythmic Priming on Grammaticality Judgement in English-Speaking Children Aged 5-12 Years

The first study within this project investigates whether listening to regular, predictable musical rhythms can improve children’s ability to process language - specifically, their sensitivity to grammatical correctness.

Previous research suggests that rhythmic priming - exposure to structured, evenly timed beats - can enhance language processing, particularly in children with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD). These effects are thought to arise from improved temporal attention, where the brain becomes better at predicting when important information will occur. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear, and evidence in English-speaking children is still limited and mixed.

Aims of the Study

This study aims to:

• determine whether regular rhythmic patterns improve grammaticality judgement compared to irregular rhythms
• examine how individual differences in language, reading, and rhythm skills influence these effects
• identify whether rhythmic benefits are linked to phonological processing, syntactic processing, or a combination of both

Method Overview

The study is currently being conducted in primary schools across Scotland, with an expected final sample of approximately 70-80 children participants aged 5-12 years. Participants take part in engaging, computer-based tasks combining musical listening with language activities, alongside assessments of their language, reading, and rhythm skills.

Why This Research Matters

This study addresses an important gap in current research - often referred to as the “English gap” - where evidence for rhythmic benefits in language processing has been inconsistent.

By identifying the cognitive mechanisms behind rhythmic priming and the profiles of children who benefit most, this research has the potential to inform:

• targeted educational strategies
• music-based interventions for language and reading difficulties
• more personalised and inclusive approaches to learning

At CogniMusica, these findings are directly applied to develop innovative, research-driven teaching methods, helping more children access the cognitive and developmental benefits of music.

Mapping Urban Inequalities Through Geodemographic Classification

A framework for place-based intervention in the Liverpool City Region.

At CogniMusica, we value interdisciplinary thinking and data-driven approaches to understanding complex societal challenges. One example of this is Maciej Wach’s Master’s research at the University of Liverpool, developed in collaboration with the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority.

This project explored how geodemographic data can be used to better understand urban inequalities and support more targeted, place-based interventions. Using advanced data analysis and unsupervised machine learning (K-means clustering), the research classified neighbourhoods across the Liverpool City Region based on key socio-demographic characteristics.

The findings were translated into an interactive dashboard for policymakers, enabling clearer, evidence-based decision-making - particularly in the context of large-scale regional investment and urban development planning.

By combining data science with real-world application, this work reflects CogniMusica’s commitment to using research-informed approaches to create meaningful impact.