A Network Model for the Embodied Communication of Musical Emotions

Abstract

Music induces a wide range of emotions. However, the influence of physiological functions on musical emotions needs further theoretical considerations. This paper summarizes the physical and physiological functions that are related to musical emotions , and proposes a model for the embodied communication of musical emotions based on a discussion on the transmission of musical emotions across people by sharing movements and gestures. In this model, human with musical emotion is represented with (1) the interfaces of perception and expression (senses, movements, facial and vocal expressions), (2) an internal system of neural activities including the mirror system and the hormonal secretion system that handles responses to musical activities, and (3) the musical emotion that is enclosed in the internal system. Using this model, music is the medium for transmitting emotions, and communication of musical emotions is the communication of internal emotions through music and perception/expression interfaces. Finally, we will discuss which aspect in music functions to encourage the communication of musical emotions by humans.