Anita Collins Residency
Music Learning Matters: Anita Collins Residency in Madison, Wisconsin
Dr. Anita Collins is a neuromusical educator and leading authority on how learning music strengthens cognitive development and drives measurable improvements in learning performance. She translates the latest neuroscience into practical insights that show how music learning enhances multiple areas of brain development, including literacy, self regulation, academic achievement, and long term cognitive growth.
Anita is the author of The Music Advantage and the founder of Bigger Better Brains, a global initiative that helps educators, parents, and system leaders understand the cognitive benefits of music learning. Her work focuses on research translation that supports systems change at every level, helping schools, education systems, and countries design and sustain high quality music learning programs that reliably improve student outcomes.
Her work is recognised across Australia, the US, the UK, Canada, and Ireland. Known for her clear and engaging communication across television, writing, and speaking, including her TED Ed lesson, TEDx talk, and her role in ABC’s Don’t Stop the Music, Anita works internationally through consulting, coaching, presentations, and collaborative partnerships to equip educators and organizations with evidence based tools that strengthen learning and performance.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2026
The Music Advantage: From Brain Science to Community Impact
A two-part event exploring how music learning shapes the developing brain, strengthens education and wellbeing, and creates lasting benefits for children, families and communities.
MORNING SESSION: For music educators
Music Learning and the Brain: Using Research to Strengthen Your Teaching Practice
Discover how brain science can help you explain the value of music learning, make informed decisions about teaching and program design, and build stronger support among families, colleagues and school leaders. Participants will leave with practical ways to use research to advocate for their students, demonstrate impact and strengthen the place of music within their learning.
• 8:00-8:30AM Check-in, same-day registration if still available
• 8:30-11:30AM For music educators
AFTERNOON SESSION: For everyone invested in helping children thrive
The Music Advantage: How Music Learning Strengthens Children, Families, and Communities
Music learning offers benefits that reach far beyond the music room. This accessible and engaging session explores how learning music supports academic development, strengthens attention and emotional regulation, enriches family life, promotes wellbeing and builds more connected communities.
• 12:00-12:30PM Check-in, same day registration if still available
• 12:30-3:30PM For parents, caregivers, educators, nonprofit organizations, arts organizations, school leaders, community groups, and everyone invested in helping children thrive.
