Synesthesia and music: Trusting our musical instincts

In the latest episode of The Music Education Podcast, your host Chris Woods explores the world of synesthesia with drummer and composer Matt Pittori. Matt discusses his experience of chromesthesia, a form of synesthesia, in which sounds trigger the perception of colour.

The conversation goes beyond the science of synesthesia to explore what this unique way of experiencing the world can teach us all about music-making.

A key theme running throughout the episode is musical intuition. Whether or not we experience synesthesia, we all have instincts that shape the way we respond to music. Learning to trust those instincts – to notice how music makes us feel, move and imagine – can be just as valuable as following notation or musical rules.

It’s an inspiring conversation that celebrates different ways of experiencing music and encourages teachers and learners alike to embrace curiosity, creativity and confidence in their own musical journey.

Listen to the episode