Unfolding the natural sound object through electroacoustic composition

Abstract

This article discusses the problems in modern urban communities of interaction between people and their surrounding soundscape through listening. The author proposes the use of electroacoustic technology to explore timbrai and metaphorical qualities in environmental sound by means of spectral analysis and digital manipulation of natural sound objects, and the further realization of electroacoustic composition. In this way, the composer acts as an interpreter of soundscape and reveals to the listener the hidden inner characteristics and symbolic qualities of daily encountered sounds, such as water streams and refrigerator motor drones. Two compositions which use these sound sources are exemplified.