TapTalks | Sound of Fear: The Science Behind Horror Music

TapTalks: Sound of Fear – The Science Behind Horror Music

Presented by Dillan Schmitz | Buffalo 9 Brewing, Calgary

Ever wondered why a single violin screech can make your hair stand on end? Or why low, rumbling bass notes can make your heart race before anything even happens on screen?

On Thursday, August 28, 2025, TapTalks invites you to Buffalo 9 Brewing for a night of chilling insights into the psychology, neuroscience, and artistry of horror music. Join Dillan Schmitz — an audio engineer, music producer, and sound designer known for his work in immersive media — as he reveals how sound can hack the brain to create fear, tension, and dread.

You’ll uncover:

• How the brain reacts to fear-triggering sounds and why our survival instincts kick in

• The evolutionary roots of why certain audio cues spark anxiety

• Music theory & sound design secrets behind horror classics — from jarring dissonance to jump-scare stingers

• How filmmakers and game creators use soundscapes to manipulate emotion and keep us on the edge of our seats

From iconic horror film scores to the subtlest sound cues in games, Dillan will break down the elements that make horror music so effective — and why we love being scared.

This event is perfect for:

• Film buffs & horror fans

• Audio engineers, music producers, and sound design enthusiasts

• Psychology and neuroscience lovers curious about fear and emotion

Evening Schedule

• 7:00 PM – Doors Open (drinks, mingling, seating)

• 7:55 PM – Host Welcome

• 8:00 PM – Talk Begins

• 8:45 PM – Audience Q&A

• 9:00 PM – Networking & drinks with Dillan and guests

• 9:30 PM – Event Ends

Event Details

• Date: Thursday, August 28, 2025

• Time: 7:00 – 9:30 PM (Talk at 8:00 PM)

• Location: Buffalo 9 Brewing, Calgary, AB

• Age: 18+

 

What are TapTalks Events?

TapTalks is a curated speaker series hosted at local breweries and distilleries, where experts, academics, and thought leaders deliver engaging, TED-style talks in a relaxed, social setting. With topics spanning science, psychology, culture, tech, and more, each TapTalk is designed to spark curiosity, conversation, and community, all over a drink with friends and family.