HC241H - Music to Your Ears: The Science of Song (W25)

Professor: Rebecca Altman

credits 4.00

  • CRN 22636: Monday & Wednesday, 12:00-1:20pm @ LIB 322

Music is a universal language. Understanding how music exists isn’t necessary to enjoy it; however, such understanding can bring an even deeper appreciation to one of the most ubiquitous aspects of daily human life. In this class, we will explore the science of how music originates and translates through space, how it interacts with our anatomy once it hits our ears, and how music can affect our brains. The term will primarily focus on the physics and mathematics of sound creation and wave behavior, setting the foundation for our exploration of biology, neuroscience, and psychology of music in the final few weeks of the term. By understanding the wave motion behind octaves and harmonies, we will create our own music while exploring the science that brings it to life.

No mathematics or physics prerequisite is required. This course uses algebraic equations to explore the physics and behavior of music.