Project Summary

I aim to compose a cycle of acousmatic works inspired by acoustic ecology, perception/sensation and the City of Glasgow. Bespoke and plundered field recordings and samples will be dessicated and reconstructed into impressionistic representations of reality. Using my privileged position as composer, I will pervert and distort these realities for musical titillation

To inform my conceptual approach to this project I will review relevant literature on acoustic ecology and auditory perception. Being particularly broad subjects, my focus is upon where they overlap - e.g the distinction of 'streams' emerging from fuzzy gestalts of noise - and the distinctive cultural resonances that sound can convey. I will post brief overviews and considerations on these topics here.

In technical terms, all music will be generated using a range of digital processing techniques, primarily granular synthesis. Using Common Lisp Music (CLM), Slippery Chicken and Max/MSP, I will develop a set of algorithms and interfaces for generating timbres and structures. Where possible, I will make these available online for others to use and develop further.

While the software element is critical to realising this project, the aim is to produce great music. Therefore, the flexibility and elegance of the programming will always be subordinated to musical goals when required.

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Throughout the project, I will regularly update this blog with my progress, interesting sounds, musical sketches, code examples, informal thoughts and more formal theoretical discussions.

Please feel free to send any comments, suggestions, praise or criticisms my way via comments or email.