Searching for the Human Connection -Physics and Music.

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the relationship between acoustic physics and music, specifically how humans comprehend and appreciate sound. The original poster, a high school senior, aims to merge the fields of music and physics to define the mental connection that allows for the transformation of sound into music. Key references include Dr. Levitin's book "This is Your Brain on Music" and various articles from PubMed that explore the neurological aspects of music perception. The conversation encourages further exploration of the cultural, psychological, and physical influences on music appreciation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of acoustic physics principles
  • Familiarity with music theory concepts
  • Knowledge of neurological and psychological factors in music perception
  • Basic research skills for academic writing
NEXT STEPS
  • Read Dr. Levitin's "This is Your Brain on Music"
  • Explore PubMed articles on music and the brain
  • Investigate the cultural influences on music composition
  • Study the psychological effects of sound on human emotions
USEFUL FOR

Students in music, psychology, and physics, researchers exploring the intersection of these fields, and anyone interested in understanding the cognitive processes behind music appreciation.

EikeJMaas
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Searching for the "Human Connection"--Physics and Music.

Hello everyone! I'm currently a senior in high school (going off to study architecture at either Rensselaer Polytech Ins., Marywood U, or Philadelphia U) and am doing an independent research project on the topic of relating acoustic physics and music; this relationship occurs somewhere within the mind and that is why I am posting in this area of the forum.

It would be very greatly appreciated if anyone that has the time could read my research blog and comment on any of my observations. http://eikemaas.blogspot.com

Here is a sort of loose thesis statement/ project goal that I have drafted:

This is my attempt at merging the opposing viewpoints of music and physics into a unified understanding of how humans comprehend and appreciate sound. Our current way of making and composing mere sound into a coherent piece of music has not developed arbitrarily over the past millenia... it has been shaped by cultural developments, neurological/psychological factors, and of course the actual physical nature of sound. There is some sort of mental connection which we establish which allows us to convert a series of alternating pressures into qualities, dissonances, and emotions. My goal is to define this connection.

Also, as a postscript, I have read Dr. Levitin's book This is Your Brain on Music. Just saying so preemptively as I'm sure someone may think of suggesting it to me.

Thank you all, see you around!
 
Last edited:
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@ Eike
It might be a bit late,
but I recently read an article on this topic
http://relentlessenergy.com/musicalbrain"
it might be a bit general for you, but perhaps the professor who wrote this has some more on this topic.
 
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