Gravitational Music

TL;DR

This paper explores the integration of recent gravitational physics and astrophysics concepts into contemporary music composition, creating a piece that sonifies phenomena like black holes and gravitational waves.

Contribution

It introduces a novel musical work inspired by gravitational models, bridging scientific theories and artistic expression in a unique interdisciplinary approach.

Findings

First musical composition based on gravitational physics concepts

Innovative sonification of black holes and gravitational waves

New interdisciplinary method linking astrophysics and music

Abstract

Since the 1960s a growing number of composers have engaged with scientific research and have tried to incorporate their understanding of various models and theories into their musical works. Among them, H\`ector Parra (b. 1976) has been particularly impressed by the recent developments of gravitational physics and astrophysics, namely the part of astronomy which deals with gravity rather than light. Black holes, gravitational waves (first detected in September 2015), cosmology, or quantum gravity models belong to such fields of intensive research, bringing surprising new concepts such as the coarse-graining of space-time, multiverse or holographic principle. In this framework we have collaborated in the conception of a large piece for soloist ensemble, orchestra and electronic devices, which tries to transpose gravitational phenomena into a new form of contemporary music.