Have you ever wondered what a mushroom sounds like? Or how a plant’s hidden rhythms might be expressed as music?
Thanks to biofeedback technology, we can now translate the natural world into sound in ways that are inspiring musicians, producers, and artists everywhere.
A popular voices in this movement is Tarun Nayar, also known as Modern Biology. His mini-documentary beautifully captures the concept of plant music - showing how subtle electrical signals from plants and fungi can be converted into MIDI data and sound. Tarun also shares fascinating explorations through his Substack, where he dives deeper into the science, philosophy, and joy of making music with the living world.
The Instruō Scíon
This concept isn’t just for research labs or niche experiments - it’s been embraced by modular synth makers too. The Instruō Scíon is a Eurorack module designed to capture biofeedback signals from plants, mushrooms, or even the human body, and transform them into evolving CV and gate patterns. For modular enthusiasts, it’s a powerful way to add organic unpredictability and “living” textures to a patch.
Introducing the Pocket Scion
Building on this idea, Instruō has now collaborated with Modern Biology to create the brand-new Pocket Scion. This portable synthesizer device makes biofeedback music more accessible than ever. Simply connect the included sensor clips to a living organism, and the Pocket Scion generates sound directly or outputs MIDI and OSC data for integration with synths, DAWs, and visual software.
Another Path: Vibrations of the Earth
For those interested in exploring sound beyond plants and fungi, another interesting tool tool is the Tremor Labs Xeofon. This “seismic microphone” captures vibrations from the environment - from footsteps and traffic to the subtle movements of the earth itself. When paired with a portable recorder like the Tascam DR-40x, it becomes a powerful way to collect organic textures and rhythms for sound design and music.
Together, tools like the Pocket Scion, Scíon Eurorack module, and Xeofon open a window into a deep creative practice of making music with nature.
Whether you’re a curious beginner, a seasoned producer, or an installation artist, Pocket Scion opens the door to turning nature’s hidden signals into evolving soundscapes. It’s creativity powered by life itself - in the palm of your hand.
Digging Deeper: Field Recording Inspiration
If you’re curious about the wider world of field recording and its role in electronic music, Ears to the Ground by Ben Murphy is an inspiring read. The book explores adventures in field recording and highlights how capturing the sounds of our environment has shaped experimental and electronic music. It’s a perfect companion for anyone excited by tools like Pocket Scion or the Xeofon, and who wants to expand their creative practice into exploring the sonic landscapes around us.