Infra-delta oscillatory structure in expressive piano performance: evidence for a shared motor timing mechanism

Abstract

This study examines the temporal dynamics of expressive piano performance by means of a quantitative analysis of motor timing in an elite pianist, with particular reference to stylistic contrasts between Baroque and Romantic repertoire. In line with kinematic models of expressive timing, which describe musical performance as reflecting principles of biological motion, we examined whether a common temporal structure underlies stylistically divergent executions. Despite marked differences in structural complexity and gesture density, both performances exhibited a shared low-frequency oscillatory pattern ([~]0.36 Hz) in beat-level timing variability. This infra-delta rhythmic modulation is consistent with the presence of an underlying motor timing scaffold and suggests a common temporal organization across expressive behaviors. These findings support the hypothesis that musical performance relies on a rhythmically structured control architecture, potentially shared with other complex motor activities such as speech and locomotion.