In paragraph three of "Music and the Brain," the author writes that "Scientists believe there is <u>mounting evidence</u> to show that early musical training can improve brain function." The use of mounting evidence is used to show that there is a lot of evidence to show that when someone learns to play an instrument or sing at an early age will have greater brain function. This evidence is noted earlier in paragraph three.
When something "adds to mounting evidence" it means that it is growing rapidly, increasing, or the evidence that already exists is extensive and this new piece of information is added to that already established evidence pile. It supports it further.
"Politeness is half good manners and half good lying" because when someone asks you how you are, you politely reply 'I'm doing good/well' even if your not - a lie. :)
