Full Program

PANEL: Sound is the Object: Creative Approaches to Mindful Sonic Experiences

Wednesday, August 25, 2021
14:45_15:45

Online

$40-120

(taxes and fees included)

Passport

Meditation can be defined as a quality of attention on sensory input in a state of physical relaxation, in order to limit our engagement in spontaneously arising thoughts and mental narratives. The aim is to let in more of what is present in our spatio-temporal sphere of awareness, enabling us to recognise habitual patterns of thinking, provide creative inspiration, and ultimately refresh our perspective on how we perceive the world.

Meditative traditions have customarily used the breath or bodily sensations as objects of mindfulness. Auditory phenomena, however, are just as effective, and particular sounds developed for the purpose of meditation can be used as powerful tools for self-inquiry.

In this panel, we ask ourselves a single question:
How can sound be most meaningfully and efficiently used in meditation?

To explore potential answers, we will discuss the neuroscience of perception and cognition, specifically our auditory perception, and the neural underpinnings of attention and focus with neuroscientist Lukas Volz, who leads the Network Plasticity Lab at the University of Cologne.

Artists working with meditative and functional music composition will then present pieces of music intentionally designed to sustain the listener’s attention, while ensuring the physical and mental calm that is a necessary ground for meditative experiences. This will be followed with an open discussion about their inspiration and creative approach towards the works.

Presented in collaboration with Soundworks, a new meditation app exploring mindful sonic experiences.

Activity in English language.