Free Rein
Team Advisor/PI
Project Description/ Research Team Goals
"Free Rein" is a real-world neuro-imaging study of creativity. Two dancers will be wearing wireless mobile brain-body imaging equipment while performing a 35 minute dance work that alternates between fixed and improvised music and dance. The goal is to investigate neural signatures of creativity, as well as compare within-subject and between-subject differences. "Free Rein" will be performed six times for public school 5th graders as part of the Hobby Center's Discovery Series and twice for the public at Houston's Midtown Arts Center in January 2026. The musical score was composed by Anthony Brandt, Professor of Composition at the Shepherd School, who also conceived of the study. Choreography is by Andy and Dionne Noble, Artistic Directors of NobleMotion Dance. The research team is headed by neuroscientist Anna Abraham, Director of the Torrance Center for Creativity at the University of Georgia and bioengineer Andrew Nordin from the University of Houston..
Issues Addressed
Brain dynamics during real-world dance improvisation
Research Methods and Technology
Wireless mobile brain-body imaging, psychological questionnaires
Preferred Undergraduate Interests
Music, creativity, neuroscience
Academic Majors of Interest
Limited to the following specific majors:
- Music
- Neuroscience
Prior Preparation/Requisite Experience
Background in music and/or neuroscience preferred
Compensation
Work study-eligible students may receive compensation from OURI
Course Credit
None for fall 2025; establishing a course for spring 2026
Team Meeting
Varies
Actively Onboarding New Members
Yes
Ready to Apply?
Use the linked Google Form to submit your application!
Contact
For more information, please email Dr. Anthony Brandt (abrandt@rice.edu).