Hearing the Sound Created by the Brainwave

Neural Music Expression

What happens when music is created intrinsically through brainwaves?

NO-ON is an interactive art project designed to explore this question.

Issue

Some emotions defy words. Imagine being suddenly captivated by a sunset that looks no different from yesterday’s—yet no single word or phrase can capture the depth of feeling. NO-ON emerged from the question: What if music could be generated directly from brainwaves?

Creation

A Real-Time Brainwave Performance

Participants wear a brainwave sensor to produce sound in real time while altering visual effects. As an audience gathers, the participant also becomes a performer. NO-ON debuted at MUTEK Japan 2018 as a live interactive experience.

Technology

Transforming Brainwaves into Sound & Visuals

Seated participants select a visual and sound set, then brainwave activity (low/high alpha, beta, and gamma waves) as well as focus and meditation states are processed to generate real-time music compositions. These neural signals also modulate visual effects, creating a seamless interaction between sound and imagery.

Future

Expanding Neural Expression

Inspired by NO-ON, Asahiyaki master potter Matsubayashi Hosai XVI developed the project "Silent Tearoom." In a tea ceremony setting, music was generated through brainwaves to express emotional shifts, engaging one host and twelve guests in a unique experiment.

Konel continues to explore brainwave and biometric-driven expression. For collaboration opportunities, please reach out.