Delayed auditory feedback (DAF) is a manipulation in which a short time delay is introduced between a person’s actions and the sound of that action reaching their ears. DAF impairs musical performance by providing incorrect feedback that disrupts sensorimotor integration. Previous research has shown that working memory facilitates sensorimotor integration of speech production by enhancing the perception of feedback errors whilst inhibiting compensatory vocal behaviour. This study investigates the relationship between working memory and sensorimotor integration of musical performance using a DAF paradigm. We hypothesise that greater working memory capacity allows for better compensation for the negative effects of DAF on musical performance. Participants’ working memory and DAF effect on piano performance were measured separately. We found that the musical performance of participants with better working memory was less affected by DAF. Our results are in keeping with previous literature that suggest a top-down influence from working memory on sensorimotor integration.

            Keywords: delayed auditory feedback, sensorimotor integration, N-back task, working memory, musical performance, systematic musicology