A couple of visits to the studio yesterday. At the first, Ross is discussing the difference between sounds we perceive as separate objects and sounds we perceive as part of the environment. Percussive sounds, for example, like the striking of a drum, he places in the first category; while the resonant sounds of a drum, after it has been struck, 'spread out,' and become part of the environment. Later, when I visit, he's discussing the Greek theatre, where it's been suggested that certain masks may have been tuned to certain tones, corresponding with receptor jars tuned to particular frequencies, suggesting a heightened aural experience separate from the straightforward communication of language - an ongoing theme of this workshop, from what I've seen. Not a 'masterclass,' by the way ... clearly wrong about that! More of a collective experience. I'd be interested in hearing from workshop participants on any point of learning or insight which are occurring for them. What's being discovered? What's becoming clearer as the workshop moves along?
I also managed to talk with Hannah Ringham about her Shunt workshop with us next week. Pleased to hear Gemma Brockis will work with her for two days as well. Hannah is currently curating the Shunt Lounge, so sounded hard-pressed. Also planning their departure from London Bridge. Difficult time. We all feel for them after their tremendous contribution to the London cultural scene in recent years. Hopefully the Webber Douglas Studio at Central will be a bit of a relief.