Surface resonance

Surface resonance is a sound and tactile sensation research project. Through compositions and an installation, I focused on felt and heard vibration, how they are perceived and how they contribute to the experience of sound.

I explored vibration as a product of low frequency (bass) sound, drawing inspiration from musical contexts where sensation from sound is emphasised. As low frequency sound passes through a space it can stimulate vibrations in a building structure. These vibrations may be experienced physically, through the transmission of energy from the building and into the body, and/or may create vibration sound that is experienced aurally, such as rattles from fixtures or windows.

My interest has been in the characteristics of these vibrations and how they may convey connections between sound and the physical aspects of the body or a space. I have explored the idea that vibration, both heard and experienced physically, can change a person’s perception of sound.

Compositions were made for vibro-acoustic installation, which combines a ‘tactile table’ system that an audience sits or lies on to experience sensation, with loudspeakers reproducing acoustic material. This ADR supports the evaluation of the compositions by giving body to the research program. It also provides a resource for composers working within the field. It describes the questions asked, the methodology applied, and the outcomes.

Given the vibration medium, the descriptions can only partly illustrate the creative process and findings. However, a focus on my conceptual development and research process is provided to show the ideas covered and contribution to the sound arts field.