Comparison of Auditory Stream Segregation Abilities and Cerebral Asymmetry in Processing Speech in Noise in Carnatic Musicians, Bharatanatyam Dancers, and Non-Trained Individuals

Abstract

Highlights: What are the main findings? Long-term musical and dance training is associated with enhanced central auditory processing, indicating more efficient cortical integration of complex acoustic information. Trained individuals exhibit reduced hemispheric asymmetry and superior auditory performance, consistent with experience-driven auditory neuroplasticity. What are the implications of the main findings? Musical and rhythmic movement–based training may promote adaptive neuroplastic changes in central auditory pathways that support auditory stream segregation and speech-in-noise perception. Training–related reductions in hemispheric asymmetry highlight the potential role of sensorimotor–auditory experiences in strengthening bilateral auditory–cognitive networks relevant to brain health. Aim: This study compared spectral profile analysis thresholds, speech-in-noise perception, and cerebral asymmetry among Carnatic musicians, Bharatanatyam dancers, and non-trained individuals and examined the influence of training duration on these measures. Method: A total of 105 right-handed adults (18–30 years) with normal hearing were divided into Carnatic musicians (n = 35), Bharatanatyam dancers (n = 35), and non-trained controls (n = 35). Spectral stream segregation was measured using the spectral profile analysis task, and speech-in-noise perception was evaluated using the Kannada QuickSIN under right, left, and binaural conditions. Cerebral asymmetry was derived from the Laterality Index. As data were non-normally distributed, non-parametric tests were used. Results: Significant group differences emerged for spectral profile thresholds, with dancers outperforming musicians and controls. Both trained groups showed superior speech-in-noise performance compared to non-trained individuals across all listening conditions, though no differences were observed between musicians and dancers. Non-trained listeners displayed a clear right-ear advantage, whereas trained groups showed minimal or no hemispheric asymmetry. Training duration negatively correlated with selected spectral profile thresholds in both trained groups and with binaural SNR-50 in dancers, indicating training-related auditory enhancement. Conclusions: Musicians and dancers demonstrate better spectral discrimination, improved speech-in-noise perception, and reduced cerebral asymmetry compared to non-trained peers. These findings underscore training-induced auditory neuroplasticity and suggest that long-term engagement in music or dance promotes efficient auditory processing and greater bilateral hemispheric involvement.