Optimizing Music-Based Interventions for Stroke

For the music playing task, participants will tap on an MRI compatible MIDI drum in response to music, while following directions to either (1) maintain the beat of the music or (2) improvise a beat along with the music. Piano accompaniment for drum playing will be provided either (1) with a recording or (2) by a live music therapist. Participants will complete all four combinations of these music playing tasks following the sequence of experimental order 3. Each of the four tasks will be repeated with four one-minute songs, resulting in a total of 16 minutes of drum playing required to complete the study procedures. Participants will repeat the same task order with each song to facilitate task comprehension and task completion accuracy. Song order will be randomized for all participants.