As part of the ongoing Brain Diaries public engagement programme, Music and the Brain was held on Wednesday 10th May at the Holywell Music Room. Last held in 2015, this year’s event featured Andrew King (DPAG) and Eric Clarke (Music). Aimed at a non-specialist audience the event helps people explore auditory neuroscience and understand how listening to music affects our bodies. The presenters covered fascinating topics including: How an understanding and appreciation of particular musical styles enhances neural activity when listening to it. Why minor chords are regarded as sad. Why you need just the right amount of syncopation to get you dancing and why surprises in a composition make it more interesting to listen to.
The free event was a massive success and the completely booked out. However, careful management of the registration system ensured everyone who wanted to attend was able to. On the night 115 people came along including a schools party from London.
In the same week NeuroNight was held at the Museum of Natural History another great success. Full story coming soon.