Non-linear EEG synchronization during observation: effects of instructions and expertise

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of instructions and expertise upon neuronal changes during observation of sequential finger movements. Professional pianists and musically naïve subjects observed these movements with the aim of either replicating or recognizing them at a later stage. A non-linear measure of functional coupling was used to investigate EEG activity. In the 10-13 Hz frequency band and in musically naïve subjects, functional coupling during observation for replica was greater within central and neighboring areas than during observation for recognition. An opposite pattern was found in the 4-8 Hz frequency band. In the 10-13 Hz band and in areas including the parietal cortex, functional coupling in musically naïve subjects was greater compared to professional pianists under observation for replica. Results are discussed in the light of recent findings from the cognitive and behavioral neuroscience literature.