# Music Interpretation and Emotion Perception: A Computational and Neurophysiological Investigation

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2506.01982 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2506.01982/

## Key facts

- Cited by 2 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- Builds on 2 of its 25 references that are in the map.
- First posted on arXiv 16 May 2025.

## Builds on (most cited first, 2 of 2)

- [Perceptual Musical Features for Interpretable Audio Tagging](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2312.11234/) (2023)
- [Music Performance Analysis: A Survey](https://mlsanity.com/paper/1907.00178/) (2019)

## Built on by (most cited first, 2 of 2)

- [Exploring How Audio Effects Alter Emotion with Foundation Models](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2509.15151/) (2025)
- [Go witheFlow: Real-time Emotion Driven Audio Effects Modulation](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2510.02171/) (2025)

## Abstract (arXiv)

This study investigates emotional expression and perception in music performance using computational and neurophysiological methods. The influence of different performance settings, such as repertoire, diatonic modal etudes, and improvisation, as well as levels of expressiveness, on performers' emotional communication and listeners' reactions is explored. Professional musicians performed various tasks, and emotional annotations were provided by both performers and the audience. Audio analysis revealed that expressive and improvisational performances exhibited unique acoustic features, while emotion analysis showed stronger emotional responses. Neurophysiological measurements indicated greater relaxation in improvisational performances. This multimodal study highlights the significance of expressivity in enhancing emotional communication and audience engagement.