Why does the Interstellar score give you chills? Why do people cry at Coldplay concerts? Why are some songs meant for a workout playlist and others aren't? In this course, students will explore these questions and more through the combined lenses of math, neuroscience and music theory. We'll learn the main techniques songwriters and composers use to create tension, grief, joy and excitement in their work - and try our hand at identifying (and writing!) these techniques in widely known songs from theater, orchestras, pop stars and movies. Whether you love music, the brain, or math - this course will open your eyes to the intricacies of the sounds many of us take for granted everyday, and hopefully make you a better listener and composer!