Creativity and Consciousness at the University of Michigan

There was a fascinating event here in Ann Arbor on September 25. Ed Sarath, who is the director of jazz and improvised music here at the University of Michigan, brought in filmmaker David Lynch and his compatriots John Hagelin and Fred Travis for a presentation in creativity and consciousness. This is an area that, like music, is near and dear to Ed's heart. He has been instrumental in establishing a formal Program in Creativity and Consciousness Studies at U-M, and as part of that program, he's brought in a number of enlightening speakers.

Lynch introduced us his Foundation for Consciousness Based Education and World Peace. Hagelin, a world-renowned quantum physicist, educator, author, and public policy expert, discussed the possibilities that exist when scientific exploration becomes united with techniques of consciousness expansion. Fred Travis, a highly regarded brain researcher showed us, literally, how brains and brain waves are affected by meditation.

What does any of this have to do with the Creative Music Studio? Ed Sarath is the tie in by virtue of his connection with Karl Berger, which began at the Banff Center way back in the early eighties. Ed and Karl collaborated most recently on a recording, concert, and workshop here at U-M about two years ago. Ed's responsible for introducing Karl Berger-flavored teaching methods (notably the gamala taki rhythm training) to the U-M School of Music.

Check out all of Ed's websites:
http://www.edsarath.com
http://isimprov.com
http://www.statenow.org