Earth is a Solar Powered Jukebox

[michael gatonska]

I came across this today on Paul Voristek's site http://www.creativefieldrecording.com/ The title of Gordon Hempton's new book caught my attention - and just wanted to pass this information on to anyone who may be interested in soundscape recording.

Earth is a Solar Powered Jukebox by Gordon Hempton
http://www.creativefieldrecording.com/2 ... more-16167

As Voristek writes, "nature field recordings are some of the most difficult sound effects to capture. Finding pure wilderness locations is difficult. Atmospheres are constantly invaded by air traffic and distant delivery trucks. The sound of rural industry travels for miles and overlaps even remote conservation areas. Sonic purity seems incredibly elusive. And, when field recordists do find a few moments of peace, wind, rain, and snow make field recording a challenge."

All so true in my humble experience. But in this new book by Gordon Hempton, he offers his experience and professional tips that could help tip this scale:

What I like in the description by Voristek is that one thing Hempton discusses in his book is not only how to record, but also equipment and the essential skill of sound designing. Sound design was something that I had approached intuitively; Hempton actually provides keys on how to bring out the sound signatures of a specific environment! - which he breaks down into 'soundscape pyramids'. By the way, for those music theorists out there, I found Hempton's idea of the “auditory horizon” intriguing - that places sounds in the foreground, middle ground, and background. This is a direct connection to the theory of the music analyst Heinrich Schenker - I love how we can draw appropriately from multiple disciplines to redefine problems outside normal boundaries!

Lastly, another reason why I recommend this book is that Hempton is a sound collector who is (in my opinion) an artist who is all about community. He shares his techniques, recording strategies/tips, and tech suggestions with all who are interested in replicating the human experience.

[dbhguru]

Michael,

Great to hear from you. Fascinating material. Thanks. What are you working on these days?

Bob

[michael gatonska]

Bob,
I have been working on my doctoral degree, so since last October or so I have been heavily involved in that project. I am incorporating soundscapes and deep listening as an important part of my thesis, so as my work/research continues I will be more in touch.
Michael