The Effect of Background Music on Memory Formation of Spoken Words: A Tradeoff Between Tension Perception and Memory Available to Purchase

The ability to selectively attend to speech within complex auditory environments is crucial for effective communication. The influence of background music on verbal learning has been a subject of debate in previous research. Background music comprises specific elements that can involuntarily capture or divert attention away from the primary task. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of instrumental background music—specifically tension, tension-resolution, and neutral segments—on the acquisition and later retention of simultaneous English spoken words. Musical tension was defined as the sensation caused by delaying the resolution of the dominant fifth harmonies. This sensation was validated in the study by measuring subjective reports of felt-tension and increases in pupil dilation in participants sensitive to musical tension. Our findings revealed that the inclusion of simultaneous background music during the learning of spoken words led to improved subsequent recall, as compared to hearing spoken words in silence. Furthermore, participants who subjectively perceived musical tension exhibited lower memory performance compared to those who did not. These findings provide insight into how background music can either hinder or facilitate the formation of memories for nonmusical stimuli in everyday scenarios.