Abstract
This research investigates the application of photographic concepts, relating to indexicality and trace, to electroacoustic composition. It addresses the practical potential for electroacoustic music to engage with extramusical meaning through a focus on the causal link between recorded sound and its source. This is achieved by applying the principles of photography, where this link is already well established, to sound.The research is practice-based and uses key photographic theories relating to trace and indexicality to inform the composition of twelve fixed medium electroacoustic works. These compositions range in style from transparently edited field recordings to abstract electroacoustic pieces. Each is composed from an explicit and acknowledged real world source and designed to engage with the tangible relationship between the recorded sound and its referent.
The compositions are accompanied by a written document which explores the shared and divergent histories of recorded sound and image, examines the relevant theoretical frameworks, and proposes practical applications for integrating photographic concepts into electroacoustic music. In relation to the portfolio the research investigates the extent to which relevant photographic concepts can be usefully applied to recorded sound in electroacoustic composition, and the creative possibilities that arise from this application.
This research provides a novel approach to electroacoustic composition and offers an alternative insight into the physical links between sound and source.
| Date of Award | 17 Jul 2025 |
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| Original language | English |
| Supervisor | Monty Adkins (Main Supervisor) & Liam Devlin (Co-Supervisor) |