About this event
The ability to make sense of musical sound has been observed in every culture since the beginning of recorded history. In early infancy, it allows us to respond to the sing-song interactions from a primary caregiver and to engage in musical play. In this illuminating talk, Professor Lauren Stewart will show that the ability to perceive and make sense of musical sound is remarkably sophisticated, and can be acquired simply by being exposed to the music of one’s own culture. From those who have too little music in their lives (those with ‘congenital amusia’) to those with too much (musical earworms or even hallucinations), we will consider what we can learn from studying these phenomena scientifically. This talk will give you a unique insight into music, its place in our lives, communities and culture and why it has been referred to as ‘the most underutilised health asset on the planet’.
Lauren is Professor of Psychology at Goldsmiths where she founded the MSc in Music Mind and Brain and co-leads a research group in this area. She has published widely on topics including learning and plasticity, congenital amusia, earworms and therapeutic aspects of music. She is currently leading a large global health project to explore how culturally embedded musical practices can support women’s mental health during pregnancy.
About Seed Talks
Seed Talks connects the UK’s top thinkers in science, psychology, philosophy and health to audiences around the country. Here you can find the talks we organise at the wonderful Juju’s Bar & Stage in Shoreditch and sister venue 91 Living Room.
Doors Open 7pm, Talk Starts at 7.30pm – Come down early to grab a drink and a good seat!
