Most of us have been asked before if we’re left or right brained. Usually if we’re good at science and math, then we think our left brain is stronger and if we’re super artsy then we must have a prominent right brain. But how much fact is in this myth?

Dr. Lieb, who teaches Neuroscience, admits “there is no doubt that there are differences in processing between the left and the right parts of the brain.” However he adds “the extent to which that occurs has been greatly exaggerated.” He claims that everyone undoubtedly uses both sides of their brains. So that means no one is “left brained or right brained.” Although someone may be “predisposed to analytical or creative solutions,” that doesn’t mean one side of their brain is stronger. Dr. Lieb explains that “people have default preferences” and that explains people who love history and English but hate math. Some solutions make “inherent sense” to some people. But finally he explains that “anyone is capable of learning any kind of solution.” It is true; all a person needs is practice.

Band director Ryan Schulz agrees. According to him, music is helpful for succeeding in multiple areas of academics. “I think the students who do music, they seem to excel more [in the math and science areas] because you’re using so much math with music without even realizing it.” He also believes that music “really helps develop both sides [of the brain].”

Fascinated by Dr. Lieb’s explanation, we interviewed Robert Pooley (‘16)  who is talented in computer science but has also mastered the saxophone. Growing up, he was “really influenced by both.” He added “My dad was really mathy and sciencey but both my parents did band in high school.” Pooley was influenced by both especially when his mom encouraged him to “take piano lessons that led to playing the saxophone.” He admits that he may be a little stronger in math but he “really enjoys both.”