Processing of hierarchical syntactic strusture in music

Hierarchical structure with nested nonlocal dependencies is a key feature of human language and can be identified theoretically in most pieces of tonal music. However, previous studies have argued against the perception of such structures in music. Here, we show processing of nonlocal dependencies in music. We presented chorales by J. S. Bach and modified versions inwhich the hierarchical structure was rendered irregular whereas the local structure was kept intact. Brain electric responses differed between regular and irregular hierarchical structures, in both musicians and nonmusicians. This finding indicates that, when listening to music, humans apply cognitive processes that are capable of dealing with longdistance dependencies resulting from hierarchically organized syntactic structures. Our results reveal that a brain mechanism fundamental for syntactic processing is engaged during the perception of music, indicating that processing of hierarchical structure with nested nonlocal dependencies is not just a key component of human language, but a multidomain capacity of human cognition.

Atratividade cultural e potencialidade turística: análise do evento Auto de Natal (Natal RN)

Inserted in the schedule for Christmas celebration in the city of Natal, capital of the state of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, the spectacle so called Auto de Natal mixes the Christmas story of Jesus birth with cultural and natural heritage of the state, making possible the integration of professionals from various fields, such as: literature, theater, dance and music. Important for local identity, Auto de Natal integrates elements of intangible heritage in the state. In this context, the research analyzed the perceptions of those who were involved in the production, presentation and organization of the event, planned to be culturally attractive to tourism. For this, it was used the descriptive and exploratory method, making use of documental, bibliographic and field researches. It was applied qualitative techniques to the interpretation of the interviews, while it was applied quantitative techniques to analyze the questionnaires. The research has discovered that Auto de Natal has the potential to add value to Cultural Tourism, diversifying the tourism product. The research has also observed that most of the respondents recognized Auto de Natal as intangible heritage, and concluded that the Christmas theme, which is alluding to the nomenclature of destiny, needs to be well-done to attract more tourists to experience the Natal in Natal