Does listening to music benefit the mind? How much do advertising and the media influence our decisions and behaviour? Dr John Barrett, an experimental psychologist at the University of Bristol, will attempt to answer these fascinating questions at two free lunchtime public talks, taking place this February.

At the first talk [Wednesday, February 1], Tingle and effort: the psychology of music, Dr Barrett will discuss the numerous psychological and educational benefits of music, including how it can enhance our learning abilities and musical skills for the future. He will also explain how regular practice at learning to play a musical instrument creates the brain structures necessary for the skill. The talk will take place at Westbury-on-Trym Village Hall, Eastfield Road, Bristol, BS9 4AG.

At his next talk Are we being brainwashed? on Wednesday, February 15, Dr Barrett will examine how the lifespan of our brains and health are influenced by TV, press and advertising. Our behaviour, intelligence, the way we think and how long we live are all influenced by the media and celebrities. The talk will take place at Royal National Institute for the Blind, 10 Still House Lane, Bedminster, Bristol, BS3 4EB.

 “Advertising is changing our brain structure, abilities and behaviours, often with negative consequences,” says Dr John Barrett. His talks will look at ways in which we can resist its influence.

The talks are organised by the University's Community Engagement Team based in the Public Programmes Office. All talks take place on Wednesdays from 1 to 2 pm.  No pre-booking is necessary and members of the audience are welcome to bring their sandwiches.