Structure-borne sound and composite aural spaces in music and intermedia creation

Introduction

The post-doctoral research project explores the possibilities of structure-borne sound for music and intermedia creation. The term “structure-borne sound” is used to signify sound waves induced into solid elements via acoustic transducers. The resulting resonating elements act as loudspeakers, giving rise to “air-borne” sound diffusion via the structures of the performance space, as well as to “audiotactile” perception when these elements are brought in physical contact with the spectators.

Structure-borne sound can be used to transform the entire performance venue into a macro-scale resonant “instrument”, opening numerous possibilities for a radical alteration of the traditional performing arts experience in music, theatre, instalation art as well as in novel intermedia forms. The project merges issues of music composition, sound perception and resonator technology in order to create a fertile research dynamic between art, science and technology.