A question to ponder is how do our bodies perceive sound? Our bodies are considered a space “in which aural structures can develop.” The body is a framework that allows for the interaction of sound. Sound involves continuous reverberations, especially in an enclosed space. Similarly, the body can absorb vibrations and sensations of sound on a continuous basis (everyday activities). Another question that should be taken into consideration is if the hearing-impaired can perceive sound? Like architecture, the body feels sound through vibrational forces, regardless if it is obvious or not. Walking may seem natural, but the force of every step is absorbed by our bodies.
Frank Russo’s sound-chair is evidence of the physicality of sound. Each note gives a different feeling. Sound can evoke feelings of astonishment, excitement and even pain. The louder the frequency or pitch, the stronger the vibration. The softer the force, the gentler it is on the body. In my case, the softness is very soothing and feels like a massage.
In addition, music also evokes a physical reaction in a person; a person can feel music vibrating throughout their body. Furthermore, our bodies enable us to get a sense of our surrounding space or environment. Before participating in Janet Cardiff’s sound-walk, I didn’t realize the importance of the body in the perception of sound and space. I had to mimic the motions of her footsteps in order for the exercise to be successful. At one point, as I walked through grass, I knew that I had been on the right track because it matched the sound in the recording. I could feel the crunch of the grass with every step, even though, I couldn’t hear it directly.
Works Cited:
Ouzounian, Gascia. “Embodied Sound: Aural architectures and the body.” Contemporary Music Review 25.1 (2006): 69-79.
Veit Erlmann. “But What of the Ethnographic Ear? Anthropology, Sound and the Senses.” Hearing Cultures: Essays on Sound, Listening and Modernity. New York: Berg, 2004.
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