Robotic Glove Helps Pianists Break Through Skill Plateaus

Japanese researchers develop an exoskeleton device that enhances finger dexterity and rewires neural pathways to improve piano performance.

The robotic glove, created by Sony Computer Science Laboratories, moves pianists' fingers in complex patterns to improve speed and accuracy.
The device helps musicians overcome the 'ceiling effect,' where practice no longer yields noticeable improvement.
In trials with 118 trained pianists, the glove improved performance in both hands, even though only one was trained.
Neuroplastic changes were observed in the brain's motor cortex, suggesting the device rewires neural connections for enhanced dexterity.
The prototype currently moves fingers in mid-air but a future version may allow pianists to play their instrument while using the device.