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PhD defence: Mathias Klarlund

The Sound of Culture: How Music Perception and Synchronization Differ Across Cultures

Info about event

Time

Wednesday 19 February 2025,  at 15:00 - 17:00

Location

Auditorium 1252-310 (Jeppe Vontilius) at Søauditorierne, Aarhus University

On Wednesday 19 February at 15:00, Mathias Klarlund defends his PhD dissertation entitled "The Sound of Culture: Dual Perspectives on Music Perception and Social Synchronization in Denmark and China".

Music is often called a universal language, but the way we listen, enjoy, and interact with it is deeply influenced by the culture we grow up in. This researcg takes the perspective of two distinct cultures, Denmark and China, to explore how culture shapes our relationship with music - and with each other through music.

The project includes five studies. The first three investigate how Danish and Chinese listeners perceive the three most fundamental components of music: rhythm, harmony, and melody. These studies reveal distinct cultural differences in what listeners find enjoyable and meaningful in their own and each other's musical traditions. Using behavioral and brain data, combined with advanced computational models, the research highlights how cultural upbringing influences not just our musical experiences but also how we make sense of the world around us.

The final two studies explore music’s social role, examining how cultural values shape our ability to synchronize and form emotional connections. By studying music cooperation and connection across cultures, the project highlights both what makes us different and what unites us.

The summary is written by the PhD student.

The defence is public and takes place in auditorium 1252-310 (Jeppe Vontilius) at Søauditorierne, Aarhus University. Please see the press release for more information. 

Contact

PhD student Mathias Klarlund
Mail: mklarlund@clin.au.dk 
Phone: +45 42678981

Read full press release