‘Sound as Vibration: Perspectives on Perception’

This is the first in a series of conversations dedicated to sound as vibration, exploring perceptions of sound and their influences on the creation of music and musical instruments. The seminar begins with historical perspectives on the evolution of the guitar and piano, examining both instruments and their respective repertoire.

In conversation with Jonathan Leathwood (University of Denver), Marco Ramelli (TU Dublin) will discuss his recent article for Soundboard Scholar, ‘A Lost Culture of Touch and Sound: The Contribution of Visually Impaired Musicians to the Evolution of Spanish Guitar’.

This will be followed by pianist and researcher Tom Beghin (Orpheus Institute and McGill University) who will present on the topic “SEEING, TOUCHING, HEARING. Exploring Intersections of Technology and Disability in Beethoven’s Late Piano Music”.
The day concludes with a round-table discussion, inviting reflections on the research presented by Marco Ramelli and Tom Beghin along with future avenues for exploration. The panel will be chaired by Mary Lennon (TU Dublin) and will feature Tom Beghin, Jonathan Leathwood, Marco Ramelli, and Cliona Doris (TU Dublin).

The event is presented in collaboration with TU Dublin’s Culture & Society Research Hub and the TouchTheSound project, with support from the Culture & Society Research Hub Development Seed Fund.

Wednesday 19 November 2025 TU Dublin Concert Hall, East Quad

Seminar: Sound as Vibration: Perspectives on Perception
11:00 – 12:00
Marco Ramelli in conversation with Jonathan Leathwood
A Lost Culture of Touch and Sound: The Contribution of Visually Impaired Musicians to the Evolution of Spanish Guitar

13:10 – 14:00
Guest Lecture: Tom Beghin
SEEING, TOUCHING, HEARING Exploring Intersections of Technology and Disability in Beethoven’s Late Piano Music

14:30 – 15:30
Panel Discussion: Sound as Vibration: Perspectives on Perception
Mary Lennon (Chair), Tom Beghin, Cliona Doris, Jonathan Leathwood and Marco Ramelli