Description:
What happens when space is examined in terms of frequencies, and conversely, how does our notion of sound reconfigure when it is broached in terms of physical sizes? This course focuses on examples where specific, and at times contrasting, attitudes towards the idea of sound-space within musical, architectural and artistic production. The course outlines particular spatial composition techniques, architectural perspectives on sound, and aesthetic challenges that arise from the implementation of an aural-spatial approach to cultural forms. Of particular interest to this course will be certain electro-acoustic compositional methods (as seen in the work of Iannis Xenakis), spatial musical approaches (such as the work of Alvin Lucier), and historic architectural anomalies (such as the British acoustic defense project). Classes will also cover a brief introduction to the physical properties of sound as well as hands-on experience with electro-acoustic spatial compositional tools (such as wave field synthesis); none-the-less, the emphasis will be on a theoretical discussion of the questions at hand. The course is structured as a one-year program organized around the themes of “echo”, “resonance” and “oscillation” aiming at providing tools towards a critical engagement with the contemporary sonic preoccupations.
Date, time and location
Wednesdays, 15:30–18:00.
Varèsezaal, Royal Conservatoire, Juliana van Stolberglaan 1, 2595 CA Den Haag, 070 315 15 15
Teaching method:
Seminar and lectures.
Course objectives:
Students who have followed these classes have: – The ability to think of sound in terms of its physical presence (frequency in
terms of physical sizes) – The ability to implement practical approaches to sound spatialization – The ability to think critically in terms of spatial oriented musical works – Comprehend the relevance of sonic spatial practices in various disciplines – Comprehend the contextual and historical constitution of listening cultures – An understanding of historic paradigms of sound and space
Course load:
10 ects.
Time table:
First and second term.
Day/time/room: Information will be announced here shortly.
Course takes place at the Royal Conservatory, Juliana van Stolberglaan 1, Den Haag (near The Hague Central station ).
Registration
Register for this course via [uSis](http://usis.leidenuniv.nl/ "uSis").
Contact
Rogier Schneemann
Kees Tazelaar, e-mail: k.tazelaar@staff.koncon.nl or info@sonology.org.
For other courses in the domains of music and fine arts, please visit:
[Elective courses music and fine arts](http://www.hum.leiden.edu/creative-performing-arts/education/elective-choices.html "Elective courses music and fine arts")