AIGA Boston, in collaboration with Berklee College of Music, is pleased to present an immersive talk and performance by Berklee Professor and acclaimed jazz pianist Kevin Harris, along with Stanford Professor Patrick Purdon (Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine).

Using state-of-the-art technology and research, Purdon and Harris have set out to understand the brain mechanisms surrounding social interaction performed under uncertainty—what most of us would simply call improvisation. Through this sonic and scientific journey, Purdon and Harris endeavor to use computational analysis of neural data to better understand creative and designerly notions of self-expression, communication, empathy, and interpersonal connection. Simultaneously, the project attempts to bridge European classical music with pan-African diasporic traditions. Harris and Purdon welcome you to join them on their fascinating journey into music and the mind.

Throughout this multi-year research collaboration, Purdon and Harris have been exploring the neuroscience of creativity and empathy. This effort is also being documented by the Emmy-nominated filmmaker Josh Izenberg. As a documentary film, Soulflow seeks to explore and reveal the inner workings of this multi-disciplinary collaboration and friendship. How are a biomedical engineer from Stanford and a jazz musician from Berklee collaborating, and why? The answer to these questions and more will be explored at this limited-seating event

Schedule:
6:30 PM Doors Open

6:30 – 7:15 Light Refreshments

7:30 – 8:30 Speaking/Performance Program

9:00 Doors Close

Speakers:
Kevin Harris is an internationally recognized composer and jazz pianist. He is an Associate Professor of Piano at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. He has performed at countless jazz festivals, venues, and concerts around the world, including the Blue Note in NYC, as well as in Beijing, Milan, and Boston. DownBeat Magazine writes that “Harris’ compositions deal with themes of strength, love, courage, and self-awareness.” His latest album, Vitruvian Echoes, was released in 2026.

Patrick Purdon is a Professor of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine at Stanford University. His research investigates and integrates neuroimaging, biomedical signal processing, and the systems neuroscience of general anesthesia and sedation. Purdon is also a jazz vocalist. His work in neuroscience examines the mechanisms of creativity by applying brain imaging and complex data analysis captured with high-density electroencephalogram (EEG) hyperscanning.

TICKET PRICING
Free (registration via Eventbrite required)

VENUE ACCESSIBILITY
AIGA Boston is committed to hosting events that are accessible for all. If you need special assistance to participate in this event, please contact Catherine Headen (catherine@boston.aiga.org), President of AIGA Boston. For reasonable assistance accommodations to be provided, please notify us at least five business days in advance of the event. If we do not receive timely notification of your reasonable request, we may not be able to make the necessary arrangements by the time of the event.

CANCELLATION / REFUND POLICY
This ticketed event is free.

PHOTOGRAPHY RELEASE
Your registration constitutes permission to use photos, audio, and video recording taken of you at the event for promotional and educational purposes in connection with AIGA Boston.

CODE OF CONDUCT
AIGA Boston has adopted the AIGA Code of Conduct with regard to its activities. We reserve the right to refuse admittance for violations of this Code, or other unlawful or disruptive actions. Any concerns should be addressed to the Director of Membership or Community Outreach.

Graphic by Dan Vlahos