Sound & Light 

Cutting-edge science and historical contemplative traditions recognize the transformative and healing powers of sound and light. From music to mantra to deep listening, sonic vibrations are known to synchronize humans; from sunlight to rainbows to dim light, frequencies of luminosity are known to heal humans. In the CIRCL, we deploy multi-methodological, interdisciplinary approaches to experimental research that couple contemplative practices with various sound and light immersions. Housed in the state-of-the-art Conservatory light and sound room, we study how the powers of 3D multichannel sound diffusion along with full color-spectrum lighting can be harnessed to understand ways humans can heal and transform. 

We are designing distinct contemplative practices which attenuate participatory awareness to full sound and light immersion under the influence of distinct vibrations, rhythms, and frequencies. Participants are monitored with various wearables such as EEG headsets, HRV devices, wristbands, and eye-tracking goggles, to gauge the effect on individual biodata, including brain activity, heartrate, respiratory rate. They are further tested with cognitive-behavioral tasks on smartphone apps, queried via questionnaires about influences, and interviewed with phenomenological techniques to capture their first-person experiences. We are interested most broadly in how contemplative practices can optimally be coupled with environments saturated with light and sound configurations, and how these couplings can be applied to human-nature connection, clinical interventions, and the enhancement of wellbeing.

The Conservatory Sound and Light Immersion Room

Inspired by the idea that human experience—like wonders of nature—can be discovered and cultivated to flourish, the Conservatory leverages immersive technologies to curate sonic and luminous experiences. This state-of-the-art 25’x27’ sound and light room in the Contemplative Commons is an immersive space that supports the transformative power of 3D multichannel sound diffusion along with full color-spectrum architectural and theatrical light. Designed specifically to induce altered perceptual and sensational experiences via sound and light, the CIRCL uses the Conservatory for contemplative research experimentation.

Collaborators

UVA Faculty: Matthew Burtner (Music), Patrick Finan (Anesthesiology), Willis Jenkins (Religious Studies)