This exciting new science communication project is being developed by Noisy Toys in partnership with Erika Anderson, Professor of Physics at Heriot-Watt University and Matt Wright, Creative Producer/Director at Pianodrome, Edinburgh.
Aims
- Promote understanding of some of the fascinating ideas at the heart of quantum physics
- Demonstrate relevance and applications of quantum research
- Enable anyone to feel confident to experiment with musical improvisation
–Quantum Physics is in your Pocket–
Are we learning about quantum ideas from music-making, or are we learning to make music with quantum ideas? Both can be true at the same time.
Both objectives complement each-other and together provide an innovative approach to two notoriously difficult educational aims.
We are looking for musical ensembles to work with us developing the workshop, and for groups of any kind (age 10+ to adult) who may be interested in workshops/shows from April 2026. We are also looking for support to help us expand this exciting project.
‘Let’s get Entangled!’
An accessible game for groups: using the concept of entanglement to facilitate musical improvisation
Introductory activities cover the concepts of superposition and quantum measurement. Then we play Let’s get Entangled!
- Learn about quantum physics through simple musical games
- Gain confidence with musical improvisation by using quantum concepts.
- Fun and low-pressure, adaptable for groups with or without prior musical experience.
Most people know the word ‘quantum’ from popular culture, but have little idea about what it means. Our objective is to help people to understand the basics of what quantum physics is, and how it has been crucial to the development of much of the technology that we use today.
This is a fascinating (and very current) area of scientific research.
Interactive workshops to illustrate quantum physical concepts and applications. Using a range of means including games, performances, visualisations, music and sound, including elements of improvisation and hands-on experimentation.
The aim is to promote a wider understanding of what quantum physics is all about, how we all benefit from applications of quantum physics, and to dispel some of the myths and mystique that arise from popular culture.
This project is a collaboration between:
Erika Andersson – Professor of Physics at Heriot-Watt University
Matt Wright – Creative Producer/Director at Pianodrome, Edinburgh
Steve Summers – Creative Producer/Director at Noisy Toys