The Colourful History of Synesthesia

The term ‘synesthesia’ was coined in the 19th century, derived from the Greek words ‘syn’, meaning ‘together’, and ‘aisthesis’, meaning ‘sensation’. This neurological condition causes individuals to experience a blending or crossing of the senses. For example, a synesthete might ‘see’ music as vibrant patterns of colour or ‘taste’ words in a book.

Historically, synesthesia was often misunderstood and dismissed as mere imagination. However, over the past few decades, neuroscientists have conducted extensive research into the phenomenon, validating its existence and shedding light on its implications in the creative industry.

Music Through a Synesthetic Prism

In a synesthete’s world, music transcends the auditory domain. Imagine watching a symphony orchestra perform, but instead of just hearing the music, you see an ever-changing visual spectacle of colours and shapes in your mind’s eye. This is the reality for many musicians with sound-to-colour synesthesia, who often describe their experiences as an internal light show accompanying each note and melody.

Renowned Russian composer Alexander Scriabin was a known synesthete who integrated his condition into his compositions. His symphony ‘Prometheus: The Poem of Fire’ included a ‘colour organ’ designed to project a light show that corresponded to the music, truly bringing his synesthetic experiences to the audience.

Synesthesia in Contemporary Music Scene

In recent times, several musicians have openly discussed their synesthesia, allowing insight into how it affects their creative process. Grammy-award winning artist Billie Eilish, for example, has frequently talked about her experiences, describing how each song she writes has its own distinct colour, texture, and shape.

EDM artist and producer Zedd is another prominent figure who uses his synesthesia as a creative tool. He often visualizes his music as a three-dimensional space, with different sounds located at various points, adding a unique depth to his compositions.

The Impact of Synesthetic Music

The phenomenon of synesthesia in music has significant implications. For the artists themselves, it provides a unique way to conceptualize and create music. For listeners, it offers an alternative lens to perceive and appreciate music.

The blending of sensory experiences also challenges the traditional boundaries between ‘high’ and ‘popular’ art forms, emphasizing the fluidity and subjectivity of artistic expression. Moreover, it highlights the diverse ways our brains can perceive the world, opening up fascinating dialogues about neurodiversity in the arts.

Conclusion

Synesthesia in music is a fascinating topic that merges art, science, and human cognition. As we continue to explore this phenomenon, we gain not only a greater appreciation for the complexity of our minds but also a richer understanding of the myriad ways we can experience and create art. Whether you’re a synesthete or not, there’s no denying the fascination and beauty that lies in this unique sensory crossover.