Episode 4: Habitats

There was always an enjoyment of listening at micro-levels.

recordings of fences are, now, an increasingly common part of

‘field recording’, which means one has to think again about

whether material is being collected or something is being

experienced (often those two things are very different). the first

extract in this piece was recorded in northumbria, at the edge of

a small wood, whilst engrossed in a coming rain shower and using

‘score for listening #79’ (from a series of photographic scores

published as ‘the rain doesn’t bother us’). the second was

recorded inside a hedge; a way for me to get nearer to the less

tranquil sonic reality for the birds and other species within it.

Listening is more than hearing. It’s about letting sounds in and

that requires a letting go of control, and a recognition (for

artist, recordist, audience) of the intuitive response being a

natural part of our species.

nb. headphone listening or via audio speakers is recommended as

some of the frequencies are inaudible via computer speakers