March 26, 2026: Science on Tap: The Physics of Sound: From Vibrations to Relaxation

Promotional flyer for a Science on Tap New River Valley event titled “The Physics of Sound: From Vibrations to Relaxation.” The flyer features portraits of speakers Omolara Bakare and Fraser Lee Hudgins. The event will take place Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at Rising Silo Brewery in Blacksburg, Virginia. The talk explores how sound travels through vibrations in materials and how different frequencies influence pitch, volume, tone, and the nervous system. Logos for the Center for Communicating Science, Science on Tap, and Sigma Xi appear at the top, and the event is free and open to the public.

March 26, 5:30 p.m., Rising Silo Brewery, 2351 Glade Road, Blacksburg

Science on Tap: The Physics of Sound: From Vibrations to Relaxation

If a tree falls in the woods, does it make a sound? The short answer: Yes, it does!

Sound is everywhere! Have you ever wondered how sound is possible? Explore with Virginia Tech physics researcher Omolara Bakare how this physical phenomenon, created by vibrations that travel through mediums such as solids, allows us to perceive pitch, volume, and tone. We will also explore how different vibrational frequencies affect the nervous system, as well as brain waves, with singing bowl practitioner Fraser Lee Hudgins. By the end of the night, you'll have gained hands- and ears-on experience with the physics of sound and frequencies.

Free and open to the public. Hosted by the Center for Communicating Science at Virginia Tech and Virginia Tech's chapter of Sigma Xi.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Erin Smith at erinsmith@vt.edu during regular business hours at least ten days before the event.