Space Odyssey: Rethinking Mahler Through the Cosmos

Daiyao Zhong, School of Music, Theatre & Dance

Collaborator: Sihang Wei, College of Engineering

Faculty Advisors: Freda Herseth, Arthur F Thurnau Professor and Professor of Music (Voice), SMTD; Max Z. Li, Assistant Professor, College of Engineering

This project, Space Odyssey: Rethinking Mahler Through the Cosmos, is inherently interdisciplinary, merging classical vocal music with aerospace engineering to create a unique artistic experience. By reimagining Mahler’s Rückert-Lieder songs Ich bin der Welt abhanden gekommen (I have been lost to the world) and Um Mitternacht (After Midnight), we aim to explore the vast, transcendent themes of space and isolation through the lens of both music and science. The aerospace engineering component enriches the project by designing soundscapes derived from spacecraft vibrations, satellite frequencies, and the natural acoustics of space. This interdisciplinary approach is ideal because it unites the evocative, emotional storytelling of music with the innovative, exploratory spirit of space engineering, creating a compelling dialogue between art and science.

The arts are central to this project as the medium through which abstract scientific phenomena are made emotionally resonant. Mahler’s compositions, already rich with existential and celestial themes, gain new dimensions through the synthesized soundscapes inspired by space. The vocal performance acts as a bridge, connecting human emotion to the vastness of the cosmos. This project demonstrates how the arts can translate complex scientific concepts into accessible and moving experiences for broader audiences.

As a collaborative effort, this project capitalizes on the strengths of its team members while addressing potential challenges. I will lead the artistic side, focusing on vocal performance and the interpretation of Mahler’s works. My collaborator from aerospace engineering will design the soundscapes using specialized tools and data, such as spacecraft vibrations and satellite-captured sounds. We will maintain open communication and a shared creative vision to address interdisciplinary challenges, such as balancing artistic expression with technical accuracy.

The project will be carried out over a three-month timeline. In the first month, we will research the technical and artistic components and experiment with sound synthesis. The second month will involve rehearsals and refining the soundscapes to align with the vocal interpretations. The final month will focus on recording and post-production, culminating in a public presentation of the project through campus channels.

The project’s impact will extend to the campus and local community by fostering appreciation for interdisciplinary collaboration and demonstrating the innovative possibilities of combining the arts and sciences. It has the potential to inspire students and community members to think beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries and appreciate the connections between creative expression and technological exploration.

I bring extensive experience in vocal performance and classical music interpretation, while my collaborator possesses technical expertise in aerospace engineering and sound design. Together, we have the skills and vision needed to complete this project and create an unforgettable experience that resonates with diverse audiences.