Keywords

Tempo; Heart Rate Variability; Bach

Abstract

This study examines how changes in rhythmic patterns and tempo of music affect physiological measures of homeostasis, such as heart rate variability (HRV), blood pressure (BP), and heart rate (HR). HRV is shown to be a biological indicator of aging, to a higher sensitivity than HR and BP. While both HR and BP have shown to remain stagnant and less variable, HRV steadily declines over time - indicative of the declining function of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). Previous studies have demonstrated a physiological effect of music on bodily function - such as through emotive changes and variability within homeostatic measures - but little research has sought to prove a quantitative effect, with regard to the variable control within the music itself. This study aims to examine the effects of musical tempo change on heart rate, blood pressure, and heart rate variability. Initial insight shows that changes in musical tempo will result in measurable changes in HR and BP, likely influencing HRV. Such findings could establish music as a tangible, accessible intervention for improving cardiovascular health. By isolating tempo as a primary variable and incorporating HRV as a sensitive indicator of autonomic function, this study aims to more specifically assess the physiological effects of music. This approach seeks to evaluate whether changes in tempo contribute to measurable variations in cardiovascular markers, helping to narrow the potential musical elements influencing homeostatic regulation.

Thesis Completion Year

2026

Thesis Completion Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair

Dr. Hansen Mansy

College

College of Engineering and Computer Science

Department

Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Thesis Discipline

Biomedical Engineering, Music

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus Access

None

Campus Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

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