2020
Among all this isolation and screen-based communication, I thought it would be nice to introduce the concept of self-guided soundwalks for when we go out and do personal exercise.
A soundwalk is a sensory, multi-dimensional experience that contrasts strikingly with the bounded flatness of the computer screen, which is where most of us spend our time. When we actively listen, our walks can become revelatory experiences. We hear sounds that transcend the boundaries of our visual matrix, allowing us to experience a different world. And anyone can do it!
Below are links to simple listening tasks that can be undertaken anywhere. They involve walking and quietly listening to the surrounding world as you do so. On your soundwalks you can go anywhere you like and take as long as your usual exercise takes.
To access the listening guides that will help you explore and contemplate diverse ways of hearing, click the small images . You can choose from one or more tasks in each list. There are also more detailed spoken soundwalk introductory guides that you can download as mp3s.
Remember, sound exists in time and so must you. It can take practice to hear the world differently. You might want to listen during only part of your walk, or even when sitting.
I also invite you to upload your own comments and thoughts to discuss your listening experiences with myself and others on our Facebook Group here.
- David Chesworth
Instructions:
Put your phone on silent mode
If walking with others, no talking (unless crucial)
Best without pets
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RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nations on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.
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