  We investigate the use of modularity as a quantifier of whole-brain
functional networks. Brain networks are constructed from functional magnetic
resonance imaging while subjects listened to auditory pieces that varied in
emotivity and cultural familiarity. The results of our analysis reveal high and
low modularity groups based on the network configuration during a subject's
favorite song, and this classification can predict network reconfiguration
during the other auditory pieces. In particular, subjects in the low modularity
group show significant brain network reconfiguration during both familiar and
unfamiliar pieces. In contrast, the high modularity brain networks appear more
robust and only exhibit significant changes during the unfamiliar music and
speech. We also find differences in the stability of module composition for the
two groups during each auditory piece. Our results suggest that the modularity
of the whole-brain network plays a significant role in the way the network
reconfigures during varying auditory processing demands, and it may therefore
contribute to individual differences in neuroplasticity capability during
therapeutic music engagement.
