Environmental Planners of the Future
Tauranga Public Lecture

- Monday 26 May 2025
- 5.30pm - 7.00pm
- TCBD.2.03 Lecture Theatre, Tauranga Campus
- University of Waikato
- nikki.hansen@waikato.ac.nz
- Free
Harmonies of the Universe - Physics and Music - Dr Simon Taylor
Those of you with curious minds are invited to this special presentation.
Dr Simon Taylor is a prominent physicist and educator. Simon has studied astrophysics, quantum mechanics, researched children’s perceptions of learning, he has a deep fascination since he was a boy on the interconnections of nature and the universe. He currently lectures at the University of Waikato, and is a keen advocate to encourage greater consultation and participation with the public on physics and science. Simon has publicly lectured on the secret life of stars, nuclear fusion, cosmo-chemistry, the physics of surfing and learning futures.
It will be an evening where both worlds meet and a wonderful opportunity to discuss the connections. There will be episodes of live music to accompany the lecture. Please join us on this special occasion.
Musical Intervals and Physics: How musical intervals (octaves, fifths) have mathematical relationships, such as frequency ratios.
Natural Frequencies in Nature: Examples of the harmonic series in nature (e.g., the way animals communicate, the sounds of nature).
Cultural Perspectives: How different cultures perceive and use harmony and rhythm, illustrating the universal nature of these concepts.

Lecturer