Hearing Music Through Spoken Language

Recently, researchers have shown a subconscious link between rhythm in a composer’s music and in their first language. If the composer’s brain makes such a connection, what does this mean for the listener, especially in music without a steady beat? Bryan Hayslett's approach to musical analysis shows how language stress aids in describing the structure of time in music, particularly when listeners can’t tap their foot to a beat. Through music for solo cello by J.S. Bach, Lee Hyla, Judith Weir, and Donald Martino, he introduces how we can hear music similarly to how we perceive spoken language.

A homemade FED dinner will be served. The menu (specially curated based on composers who will be discussed!) is as follows:

Opening: White clam flatbread, beer and wine

Main Course: Chicago deep dish veggie pizza; barbecued jackfruit; root vegetable coleslaw.

Dessert: Apple strudel with German chocolate dipping sauce

Cellist Bryan Hayslett teaches…