(Masterclass: Singing Primates: Between Music, Language, and Evolution
Speaker: Chiara De Gregorio, Post Doctoral Researcher, Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology (DBIOS), University of Turin, Turin, Italy, Department of Psychology, University of Warwick, Warwick, UK
Abstract:
The evolution of human language remains one of the most compelling questions in science, demanding insights across disciplines. This talk explores a comparative approach to the origins of language and music through the study of nonhuman primate communication. Focusing on species such as lemurs, titi monkeys, and orangutans, the presentation highlights how animal vocal behaviours can inform our understanding of the evolutionary roots of rhythmicity, vocal learning, and complex signalling.
Particular attention is given to the vocal behaviours of our distant-yet oddly familiar-relatives: from the singing lemurs of Madagascar to the antiphonal duets of titi monkeys, and the expressive, alarm-like calls of orangutans. These primates, like us, sing in synchrony, structure their vocal sequences hierarchically, and display a rhythmic organization that would not disappoint Freddie Mercury.
This masterclass will bridge zoology, bioacoustics, linguistics, and biomusicology, offering a multidisciplinary perspective on how communication systems emerge and evolve. Importantly, it underlines the critical role of conservation efforts to preserve these species and their vocal cultures, models that continue to teach us profound lessons bout ourselves and our shared evolutionary heritage.
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This program of masterclasses is organized by the EURIP Graduate School (École Universitaire de Recherche Interdisciplinaire de Paris). Located at the Learning Planet Institute, in collaboration with Université Paris Cité, it brings together the Master of AIRE (Approaches to Interdisciplinary Research and Education) and the FIRE Doctoral School (Frontières de l'Innovation en Recherche et Éducation). EURIP welcomes postgraduate students and early career researchers who aim to address global challenges related to sustainability and Planetary Health through innovative, interdisciplinary approaches.
Participation upon registration - for more information contact our team at alice.robineau@learningplanetinstitute.org