Free concert on the science of music in Laois library

AS part of the Midlands Science Festival, Midlands Science is holding a special free concert – ‘Sing up for Science’ - in Portlaoise Library at 6.30pm on Wednesday 13 November.

CEO of Midlands Science Jackie Gorman said: “Science has shown that music can change our mood and this is associated with dopamine release in our brain – a neurotransmitter accountable for feelings of pleasure and reward.

“A McGill University study involving scans has shown that dopamine is released during peak enjoyment moments in music, similar to how it responds when we eat something delicious or experience something exciting.” 

Bohemian Strings will perform on the night while MC for the evening Dr. Claire O’Connell will in between tunes explain what is happening in our brains as we listen to music and why heavy metal lovers and classical music lovers are the two types of music fans who are most alike in terms of personality and many other fascinating music facts.

Ms Gorman said: “From AC/DC to Vivaldi, you’ll be singing up for science in no time. Bohemian Strings have played with everyone from the Beach Boys to Mick Flannery. Midlands Science is delighted to welcome them to Laois for this special Science Week event.” 

The Midlands Science Festival is supported by Research Ireland and is part of a national network of festivals during Science which encourage people of all ages to engage with science.

All events are free but must be booked in advance on www.midlandsscience.ie