Sonic Array of Rhythmic Alleles (SARA): Giving Voice to Genomic DNA Through the Sonification of Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) Data

This article introduces Sonic Array of Rhythmic Alleles (SARA), an interdisciplinary framework that converts FTIR spectra of genomic DNA into structured musical works. The framework analyzes DNA from peripheral blood mononuclear cells; interferograms are reconstructed via inverse fast Fourier transform. Interferogram periodicities, intensities, and spacings map to pitch, dynamics, and rhythm using data-science and music-theory strategies. Experiments with clustering and scaling factors evaluate tonal diversity. The sonifications reveal vibrational traits linked to DNA conformation, with musical parameters maintaining spectral fidelity. Genomic features appear as timbral and registral contrasts in downstream arrangements. The work shows how sonification bridges STEM and the arts to expand scientific interpretation and creative engagement, and it points toward future integration of machine learning and cross-cultural tuning.