For example, they can discriminate differences between two adjacent notes on a piano, which is the smallest interval used in Western music. Adults perceive melody not by remembering the exact notes but by the pattern of lower and higher notes. Infants 8-11 months of age can do this as well. Rhythm and tempo are basic building blocks of music. Adults organize sound sequences by grouping them into discrete phrases.
Adults also recognize the same melody independent of how rapidly or slowly it is played.
Seven to nine month old infants also recognize melodies independent of tempo, showing the same listening strategy as adults. Yes, even without lessons in playing an instrument or singing, young children show their knowledge of and interest in music spontaneously. For example, infants and pre-school children imitate musical phrases and songs. Recognizable spontaneous singing can be observed as early as six months of age. Some Benefits of Music Education on Cognitive Development Music education, particularly learning to play an instrument, has been found to have many benefits on cognitive development.