A 69-year-old man is helping push the boundaries of brain-computer interface technology by using a neural implant not just for function, but for creative expression, specifically making music with his mind. Galen Buckwalter, a research psychologist who has been paralyzed since a diving accident at age 16, volunteered to undergo brain surgery in 2024 as part of an experimental study at the California Institute of Technology. His goal was to contribute to research that could improve the lives of people living with paralysis.
Buckwalter received six implants in his brain, each containing multiple channels capable of recording neural activity. These implants detect signals associated with movement intentions and translate them into digital commands. Through this system, he can control a computer using only his thoughts and even regain some sensation in his fingers, something he had lost after his injury.
The technology he is using is known as a brain-computer interface. These systems are being developed by several companies and research groups with the primary goal of helping individuals with severe disabilities regain communication and mobility. However, Buckwalter’s experience highlights a different and less traditional application, using the technology for artistic and creative purposes rather than strictly medical or functional ones.
Working alongside a graduate student, Buckwalter helped develop a system that converts his brain activity into musical tones. The process involves identifying specific neurons he can consciously control. When he imagines moving different parts of his body, such as his fingers or toes, certain neural signals activate. These signals are then mapped to musical tones, where increasing or decreasing neural activity changes the pitch of the sound.
At this stage, Buckwalter is able to produce two tones at the same time by thinking about different movements simultaneously. Creating more than two tones becomes more difficult, as it requires coordinating multiple mental commands at once, similar to performing two different physical actions simultaneously. Researchers are continuing to refine the system, with the long-term goal of allowing more complex compositions and layered sounds.
Buckwalter, who has a background in music and has played in a band for years, quickly saw the creative potential of the technology. He has already incorporated sounds generated from his brain activity into a song titled “Wirehead,” which is part of his band’s latest album. This marks one of the first examples of music being directly influenced by neural signals rather than traditional instruments.
The experience of hearing music generated from his own thoughts has been deeply impactful. He described it as both surprising and rewarding, emphasizing the sense of control and creativity it provides. The ability to translate thoughts into sound has given him a new way to engage with music and experience artistic expression despite his physical limitations.
Beyond his personal experience, Buckwalter believes that creativity should play a larger role in the development of brain-computer interfaces. He argues that for the technology to succeed, it must not only be functional but also enjoyable and meaningful for users. Incorporating creative applications like music and art can enhance quality of life and provide motivation for people using these systems.
Other individuals with similar implants are also exploring creative uses, including generating digital artwork through brain signals. These efforts demonstrate that brain-computer interface technology has the potential to go beyond medical rehabilitation and open entirely new forms of human expression.
As research continues, Buckwalter’s work offers a glimpse into a future where the human brain can directly interact with technology in increasingly complex and creative ways. While the technology is still in development, his experience shows that it can provide not only practical benefits but also opportunities for innovation, self-expression, and personal fulfillment.
Source: Wired
