Pattern-Seekers

 

Structural Constellation - Josef Albers (1955)

Since we are pattern-seekers, music may make us more generally aware of patterns, just as visual art does. Music also may encode with other experiences and trigger memories associated with them, regardless of whether or not we like the music. To this day, there are pieces of music that evoke places and experiences that I’ve had in the past. I would imagine that even a false memory could be attached to music if it is repeated enough to be understood as a real experience.

About 10 years ago there was a "smell camera" that was developed, aptly named Madeleine, the purpose of which would be to trigger memories, in the same way that music does. Similarly, music is a "sound camera".

We may all be wired for potential synesthetic experiences, but have been deconditioned. Recently, there was a story that went viral about an 8-year old boy who was  composing his own music, playing all the instruments and using recording software at the level of a 28-year old. We might all have similar aptitudes in various disciplines but are quickly replaced in institutionalized learning. This particular child felt free to express what he felt to be natural. Since music is about working with patterns (not only rhythmic, but also harmonic and melodic), it is logical that this level of skill would emerge. Children also systematize more readily and are more willing to experiment to find out how things work, and sets up reward pathways.