I always record sounds as part of the compositional process for any particular project (to aid recollection of place etc). I also enjoy making recordings in interesting locations on holiday or in my local area.
I have at various times got up to witness a dawn chorus. Here is one in my own village . I chose 4 locations the first at 4.30am where already the birds were in full voice.
The movement of water and here the waves in a jetty are a source of inspiration. The recording here made at Aldeburgh beach on a relatively windless day which is rare. I love the deep sounds in the jetty itself as well as the water through the shingle.
I am always fascinated with the endless variety in blackbird song. In particular I love the way they combine small motifs into longer utterances. This bird I call ‘pretty birdie’ because he uses an identifying motif which seems to sing this. I remember this bird as a juvenile last year but his singing is now so much more accomplished.
I love cafe sounds, here the 1920’s Viennese-style Cafe Einstein Stammhaus on Kurfustenstrasse, Berlin. The old wood and good acoustics made it special. It was and is a favourite place for artists and aristocrats in the day. Lovely service and great coffee!
This is an excerpt from a funeral parade in Port Ellen, Islay, Scotland. It came from a distance and disappeared. Local people stood at their doors to watch. A real sense of community. The theme is part of 3 pieces for ‘cello and piano currently being written.