The relationship between music and the human brain represents a special focus of research at The Neurosciences Institute. Although our innovative and unique work in understanding those brain functions that enable us to create and appreciate music is only in its infancy, we believe that the quality of human life can be substantially enhanced by furthering research about how the brain conceives and perceives music and art.

In keeping with our commitment to research in this important area, the Institute's acoustically acclaimed Auditorium is made available without charge to many distinguished arts and educational organizations for concerts and educational presentations. Cultural events held in the auditorium are presented under the aegis of "Performing Arts at The Neurosciences Institute." This program represents a service to the local community that is designed both to encourage and support the performing arts, and underscore the special relationship between the arts and the human brain.

This program saves local non-profit organizations over $300,000 per year in costly rental fees and provides an exquisite space for nearly 100 events annually free-of-charge. In doing so, the Institute is enhancing the local arts scene by allowing small non-profits to focus their funds on bringing high-quality artists and speakers in to San Diego instead of focusing on hall rental fees.

In 1996, the first year of the Performing Arts program, one organization held two concerts in the Auditorium. Each year, the number of non-profit arts and educational organizations that use this special space continues to grow, as does the number and variety of concerts and lectures. The Institute's Auditorium has become one of the premiere venues for experiencing arts and cultural events in San Diego, and received the 2008 Best of San Diego Award in the Theatres category by the U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA). On average, each year over 20,000 people enjoy quality performing arts events in the hall.

In order for the Institute to maintain and expand this program yet preserve our policy of offering the auditorium on a pro bono basis to not-for-profit organizations, the Institute must absorb the costs associated with this courtesy. Because the Institute relies completely on private donations, we turn to individuals and private foundations that share our desire to continue to provide this precious resource to the San Diego community. Support the program today by purchasing your tickets for Minding the Arts! For a list of the organizations who have participated in the program over the years, click here.