Volcanic eruptions can perturb global climate, build mountains, and reshape human civilizations. They can be deadly, but the deep roots of volcanoes also provide a foundry for critical minerals that enable modern society. In these ways and others, volcanoes have inspired scientists and artists alike for thousands of years.

The Volcano Listening Project explores connections between scientific research and artistic perspectives of volcanoes, developing tools to represent data through sound that draw equally from data science, volcanology, and new music.

Data ‘sonification’, the display of data using sound, is a powerful way to interact with and understand the complex signals recorded at volcanoes. By leveraging our ears as scientific sensors, it is possible to detect patterns and subtle signatures of deep, poorly understood, volcanic processes. In equal part, sonification of data can trigger an emotional response, and thus lead to compelling music.

This program will showcase the Earth songs of volcano music and explain the science behind it, led by volcanologist and violinist Leif Karlstrom. Joining Leif is an ensemble of internationally recognized musicians:

• Todd Sickafoose (Grammy award-winning composer and bass player for Ani DiFranco),
• Idit Shner (University of Oregon saxophone professor),
• Adam Roskiewicz (Grammy nominated with The Modern Mandolin Quartet, as well as work with the Ger Mandolin Orchestra and bluegrass band Front Country), and
• Johnny Rodgers (tuned glass virtuoso). 

Leif Karlstrom is an associate professor of Earth Sciences at the University of Oregon. He studies fluid motions in and on volcanoes, glaciers, landscape evolution, and geodynamics. He currently co-leads the Federal Advisory Committee to the U.S. Geological Survey National Volcano Early Warning System, and is also a violinist and composer, with recent national touring and recording credits including folk/bluegrass ensembles Front Country, The Lowest Pair, and Hot Buttered Rum.