Sound pieces for Collegetown and the Ithaca Commons
Different sections of Ithaca are defined not only by their
architecture but by their sounds.
Sound signals, such as buses, sirens, music from Collegetown
Bagels and Rullof’s, as well as creek noise help define Collegetown, while
other signals, such as the fountain, music from Simeons, pedestrian and
vehicular traffic, create a distinctive acoustic profile of the Commons. Moreover these sounds change with the
seasons.
Analyzing sound elements—signals, soundmarks, acoustic
horizons, profiles, and keynotes—complements design analysis but also provides
a narrative about the local community.
The sounds we listen to become part of our own stories or lives and affect
us in ways similar to language.
With the help of digital editing, I have come up with two sonic
narratives. Composing the works is no different than editing a film. It’s the
juxtapositions that make the pieces effective. Just as the goal of a healthy
acoustic community is variety, complexity, and balance—where form and function
are in equilibrium—so can these terms be useful for artists or composers.
Comments