brain with music notes

TRBQ: Why Does Music Move Us?

TRBQ: The Really Big Questions | Apr 24, 2014

Music is one of the most ubiquitous forces in the world, permeating every culture without explanation as to why we are so affected by its touch. There's a reason why humans create music and why it's so heavily embedded into our lives -- but that reason isn't too clear. In this episode of "The Really Big Questions," musicians and researchers attempt to explain the impact of music on the human brain.

Hear from a range of guests with wide expertise in the field:

 

  • Jazz guitarist Pat Martino who lost his memory after neurosurgery and retaught himself how to play
  • Neuroscience researcher Psyche Loui at Wesleyan University who studies chills and strong emotional responses to intense aesthetic experiences like music
  • Petr Janata from UC Davis who is interested in how we "groove" to music
  • Steven Pinker, linguist and evolutionary psychologist

    •  

     

    WNYC is funded by sponsors and member donations

    WNYC Homepage - Top Stories

    The super PAC complicating the narrative for NYC progressives in Democratic primaries

    What happens when a deep-pocketed super PAC promises a multimillion-dollar campaign to support progressive Democrats?
    Gothamist |

    A Memoir on Growing up in Gowanus, Before the Whole Foods

    All Of It with Alison Stewart |

    Bill Bradley on Knicks Fever and More

    Bill Bradley talks about this year's NBA finals, reflects on his own championship season, and more.
    The Brian Lehrer Show |

    I.C.E.'s "Wartime Recruitment" Campaign

    Hiring at the highest-funded U.S. law enforcement agency.
    On the Media |
    YOU ARE ONLINE