Topics in Sound Production (401-0-24)

Topic

DIY Sound Installation

Instructors

Whitney Deanne Johnson

Meeting Info

Louis Hall 105: Mon 6:00PM - 8:50PM

Overview of class

In this practice-based course, we will explore Do-It-Yourself approaches to sound installation in unconventional spaces with limited means. We will survey historical works in sound that have taken a DIY approach to spatial audio and allow them to inspire formal proposals for our own future works. Many institutions require us to improvise sound production in unusual architectural environments, and we will engage in projects to develop creative solutions to some hypothetical constraints (e.g. stairways, corridors, elevators, bathrooms). We will also use class time for installation experiments with a variety of sound sources and amplification devices. The course will culminate in group projects that involve hands-on DIY installation in the world, documentation of those works, and discussion of the process. No materials or prerequisite skills are required, but those whose practices include spatial audio or multi-channel sound are encouraged to bring them to the class.

Learning Objectives

To practice installing sound in the sound studio using different sound sources, listening to the results, and adjusting the installation accordingly

To prepare projects, hypothetical and actual, for sound installation in a variety of contexts

To install sound in an off-campus location, document the results, and discuss the practice with the class

Class Materials (Required)

None