As part of the Midlands Science Festival, Midlands Science will host a special free concert in Portlaoise Library on Wednesday, November 13.
Dr Claire O’Connell, a scientists and journalist who regularly writes for the Irish Times, will be the MC for the evening, with Bohemian Strings taking centre stage.
The string quartet are renowned for their unique blend of classical music and upbeat contemporary rock and pop music.
Dr O’Connell will explain between songs what is happening in our brains as we listen to music.
One example is 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.
Bohemian Strings have played with Brian Wilson of the iconic Beach Boys and Irish singer/songwriter Mick Flannery.
Their catalogue includes AC/DC, Depeche Mode, The Beatles, The Carpenters and much more.
“Science has shown that music can change our mood,” Jackie Gorman, CEO of Midlands Science, said.
“This is associated with dopamine release in our brain – a neurotransmitter accountable for feelings of pleasure and reward.
“A McGill University study involving PET (Positron Emission Tomography) 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.”
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.
Science Week takes places this November 10 to 17, with a wide range of activities here in Laois including events for schools, groups and adults
All events are free but must be booked in advance on MidlandsScience.ie.
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