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Explore the 5Hz project with activities, performances, workshops and discussions that investigate the power of language in human relationships.

Artist Emma Smith presents 5Hz – an interactive exhibition that invites audiences to experience a new human language, designed to bring us closer together.

11.30am – 1.15pm Film screening: Amandla: a revolution in four part harmony

(Dir. Lee Hirsch, US, 2002, 103 mins). Screening in the Dark Studio.

2pm – 3pm Discussion group

From work songs and protest to lullabies music is used to assert social bonds. Join artist Emma Smith to read, view, and discuss a selection of texts and clips on the ways in which music connects us.

4pm – 5pm Open mic session

Do you have a favourite song you’d like to share? Put your name down on the day to perform it in the gallery. Music speaks to us all in different ways – this open mic session invites you to share a song that speaks to you. A mic will be provided for live performances and for anyone less confident we are also able to play vinyl so feel free to bring along your favourite record. Slots will be filled on a first come first served basis so arrive early to avoid disappointment.

5Hz is the result of a collaborative research process with psychologist Laurence White (Plymouth University), cognitive neuroscientist Nina Kazanina, and musicologist Emma Hornby (both University of Bristol). Building on this research, Emma Smith worked with Laurence White to create a language for the role of social bonding.