In the world of music and science, there are countless moments that transcend the boundaries of understanding and venture into the realm of wonder. Gravity, electricity, black holes, Oscar Peterson’s left hand during a piano solo. They all leave me in awe.
Another moment that captivated me in a similar way occurred at the “Notes & Neurons: In Search of the Common Chorus” event hosted by the World Science Festival.
One of my favorite musicians, Bobby McFerrin, was on the panel. They talk a lot (and most of it goes over my head), but during their conversation, it became obvious that he couldn’t just use words to articulate his point. He needed to demonstrate it.
And what he showed was incredible… Check this out.
By only giving the audience two starting notes, he wonderfully leads them to sing a pentatonic scale.
As someone who has always been mesmerized by the power of music, this video struck a deep chord.
It really shows how powerful the pentatonic scale is and why so many iconic melodies use it.
It shows that music isn’t just a complex language mastered only by the trained or the talented. There are some aspects of it that are as natural to us as breathing. It’s not a product of our cultural exposure, but perhaps there are more universal aspects to it that are deeply ingrained.
McFerrin’s demonstration is a powerful reminder of the magic of music. It’s not just about notes and rhythms; it’s a fundamental part of who we are as humans.
Learn more about the magic of the pentatonic scale in our guide here.
