Toward Sound

This study examines three styles of textural music --
phonography, noise, and free improvisation -- music
which is based upon the layering of spectrally dense fabrics of sound, often improvised and performed
live in front of an audience. In particular, I
discuss the American Northeast Corridor subcultures
and communities that host these scenes by describing
some of my own experiences as well as those of
important artists who work within these realms of
sound. Through these investigations, I demonstrate the
importance of these points of view within the larger
musical discourse.

Autorentext
Scott Smallwood is a composer, sound artist, and sound performer
whose process is informed by a practice of field recording,
improvisation, and listening. His work has been presented
worldwide in diverse venues including concert halls, galleries,
clubs, rooftops, and swimming pools. He currently teaches at the
University of Alberta.