Investigation of music perception and preferences based on inner ear behaviour using Otoacoustic Emissions and Artificial Intelligence

Research Student: Natasha Blakemore
Supervisor: Dr Christos Chousidis
Supervisor: Dr Russell Mason

Supported by : Marion Redfearn Trust and University of Surrey Doctoral College

Start date: 2023
End date: 2027

Project Outline

How the human hearing mechanism interprets music in terms of loudness, rhythm, and frequency content has an essential effect on our music preferences. In addition to cultural and educational factors that affect music choices, there is also an objective factor that may impact how we understand music. This is the inner ear and, most specifically, the "Cochlea" and the "Organ of Corti", which have unique characteristics for different people. These inner ear elements convert sound into bioelectric signals that transfer audio information to the brain and there is evidence of significant differences in the process of this conversion between individuals. These organs can be studied by measuring a back-propagated sound called otoacoustic emission (OAE), which is generated when the ear is stimulated.

The method for this project will be collecting otoacoustic emission measurements to gain insights into the role of the cochlear amplifier, specifically exploring variations among individuals. This data will then be analysed and correlated with listener preferences from surveys, and form the basis for developing an AI classifier aimed at predicting an individual's music preferences and listening needs. The broader objective of the project is to contribute to the design of personalised acoustic experiences to alleviate auditory fatigue as well as improve the enjoyment of music for those with hearing loss, and provide a deeper understanding of music perception.