SYMPHONY FOR ENDANGERED BIRDS: A MULTI-CHANNEL ODE
duration: 20’-30' loop
5-channel sound installation (more channels possibile for site-specific adaptations)
concept, musical composition, arrangements, sound design and installation by Aimée Portioli
THE CONCEPT AND AIM
"Symphony for Endangered Birds: A Multi-Channel Ode" is a research and recording project aimed at creating a 5-channel installation that incorporates the enchanting melodies of endangered bird species into a meticulously edited and harmoniously blended composition. The installation celebrates the diverse melodies of various bird species while emphasizing the plight of those facing endangerment. The unification of bird voices serves as a poignant call to action, urging the audience to reflect on the challenges these birds face due to human activities. The collective choir becomes a symbolic expression of resistance, encouraging awareness and conservation efforts to protect endangered species and their habitats.
ECOLOGICAL ROLES OF BIRDS
Birds play crucial roles in maintaining ecological balance. They control insect populations, pollinate flowers, and disperse seeds, contributing to the health and diversity of ecosystems. Their presence and behavior serve as indicators of ecosystem health, making them important barometers for biodiversity.
THE COMPLEXITY OF BIRDSONG
Birds use songs and calls for communication within their species, conveying information about territory, mating, danger, and social interactions. Each bird species has a unique repertoire of sounds and songs, conveying information specific to their ecological niche. Birdsong often depends on specific contexts, with nuances that require a deep understanding of each species' behavior. Individual birds within a species may have variations in their songs, adding further layers of complexity to the meaning.
THE COMPOSITION
"Symphony for Endangered Birds: A Multi-Channel Ode” will combine recordings from distinct bird species, edited to seamlessly merge their individual songs into a harmonious ensemble. In addition to the birds' songs, I will compose original music that weaves around the bird choir, further enhancing the emotional depth and atmosphere of the installation. The carefully curated soundscape will mirror the essence of a choir, suggesting a collaborative effort. The 5-channel configuration enhances the immersive experience, enveloping visitors in a spatial arrangement that amplifies both the natural avian melodies and the complementary musical composition.
VISUAL ACCOMPANIMENT
The installation incorporates informational visual material that provides insights into each bird species, their endangered status, and the artistic process behind the creation of the collective composition. This narrative integration deepens the audience's understanding of the delicate balance between humanity and avian inhabitants.
ARTIST STATEMENT
As an artist, my hope is that this installation not only sparks a renewed appreciation for the diversity and intricacies of bird melodies but also serves as a catalyst for collective action. Through shared awareness, education, and a commitment to conservation, we can contribute to the preservation of these melodies and ensure that the harmonious symphony of endangered birds continues to echo through the natural landscapes of our shared home.
By merging the voices of endangered birds into a collective choir, I want to communicate a powerful message of solidarity and resilience in the face of habitat loss, pollution, and other threats posed by human activities.
In the past, I explored the interconnectedness of nature and sound in the installation and live act titled "Tuning the Wind". Delving into the essence of wind as an invisible force, the piece highlighted the diverse sounds it produces when interacting with various elements. Recognizing that wind is air in motion and its sound depends on factors like strength and objects in its path, the composition aimed to capture the multitude of frequencies and timbres inherent in the wind. Building on the previous exploration of the relationship between humanity and the natural environment, my current project, "Symphony for Endangered Birds: A Multi-Channel Ode" continues this exploration.
EQUIPMENT
5 or more high quality audio monitors with power cables
5 or more regulable monitor stands
1 multitrack player
necessary cables
visual work TBD