The Animal 'Voice': Combining Sonic And Behavioural Communication Within The Compositional Process

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

This project explores the application of different forms of animal communication, both sonic and behavioural, within the context of electroacoustic composition, with the potential to create new sonic means for conservation awareness and education. By combining multiple forms of animal communication within the compositional process, I aim to create an innovative, more fully realised, accessible and understandable 'voice' for the animal within new acousmatic and interactive works and explore the potential of the research within wider ecological and public awareness contexts. Multi-sensory encounters with animals can be the most emotionally powerful and memorable; by utilising electroacoustic music's potential for transmodal perception through careful creation of sonic materials and spatial design, as well as using the recognisable sounds and behaviours of animals, my research will create opportunities for listeners to more fully connect with and understand animals in a virtual manner. This allows for a wider spread of public awareness unrestricted by place or proximity.My research will address the following questions:How can an animal's physical behaviour augment verbalisations and contribute to the concept of form in a musical composition?How can the electroacoustic medium elaborate, enhance and extend upon key animal vocalised and behavioural identities?How can the use of animal sounds inform upon the wider interactions of sound and spatial design within an electroacoustic composition?Can the arising methodologies create sonic experiences that can be used for educational and conservational purposes?Methodology:Record a catalogue of sounds from the focus animals, experimenting with directional, in-enclosure and on-collar recording techniques, noting the perceived emotional state, body language, and object of focus. I will document my recording techniques for public engagement purposes. Develop these sounds in the studio, combining the physical movements and behaviours of the animals with the concept of structuring process, 'gestural surrogacy' and 'source bonding', as explored by Smalley in 'Spectromorphology'.Create and perform musical experiences that allow the listener to form transmodal and meaningful connections with the focus animals, learn about their behaviour, and instil a desire to support current conservation efforts. This may include the use of narration so that new listeners of electroacoustic music can more easily navigate the sound-worlds.The arising research will be practice-based, leading to a portfolio of original electroacoustic compositions that will be supported by, and undertaken in collaboration with, the following conservation facilities. These facilities are working towards saving species at risk of extinction and have education and public awareness embedded within their conservation work. -WildWood, a centre for the conservation of British wildlife that features both past and present native species.-Jersey Zoo, a zoological park operated by the Gerald Durrell Conservation Trust. My works will be created in conjunction with their research programme around nature connection and its impact on conservation and wellbeing.-Cheetah Outreach, a non-profit organisation that promotes the survival of the free-ranging South African cheetah and other animals.