Asian Sound Cultures: Voice, Noise, Sound, Technology

This book explores the meanings, uses, and agency of voice, noise, sound, and sound technologies across Asia, revealing sound as central to the experience of modernity and essential to understanding cultural, social, political, and economic transformation. It presents a broad range of topics and challenges us to rethink and reassemble important categories in sound studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 294 pages
Publication date: 22 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the profound meanings, diverse applications, and intricate agencies of voice, noise, sound, and sound technologies across Asia. Through a series of extensive and interdisciplinary case studies, it unveils the central role of sound in shaping the modern experiences of Asia and its profound impact on the historical processes of cultural, social, political, and economic transformation throughout the long twentieth century. Spanning a wide range of topics, from the evolving sounds of Kyoto's kimono-making industry to the emergence of radio in late colonial India, the book explores how studying Asian sound cultures provides invaluable insights into historical accounts of local and global transformations. By challenging established categories in sound studies, this book emerges as a vital resource for students and scholars engaged in the fields of sound studies, Asian studies, history, postcolonial studies, and media studies.

Voice, noise, sound, and sound technologies have played a pivotal role in shaping the diverse cultures and societies of Asia. From the intricate melodies of traditional Chinese music to the bustling sounds of urban cities, these elements have contributed to the rich tapestry of Asian experiences. In this book, we will explore the meanings, uses, and agency of voice, noise, sound, and sound technologies across Asia.

We will begin by examining the historical and cultural contexts in which sound has played a significant role. From the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia and Egypt to the modern-day megacities of Tokyo and Shanghai, we will trace the evolution of sound technologies and their impact on society. We will also explore the ways in which sound has been used as a tool for communication, expression, and cultural preservation.

One of the key themes of this book is the role of sound in shaping the experiences of modernity in Asia. From the introduction of Western music and technology to the emergence of local genres and styles, sound has been a catalyst for cultural transformation. We will examine how sound technologies have been used to create new forms of entertainment, promote social change, and shape political ideologies.

In addition to exploring the historical and cultural dimensions of sound, we will also examine the political and economic implications of sound technologies. From the privatization of radio in India to the control of music industries in Southeast Asia, we will explore how sound technologies have been used to consolidate power and control over populations.

Finally, we will consider the agency of sound and sound technologies in shaping Asian experiences. From the voices of marginalized communities to the sounds of resistance movements, we will explore how sound has been used to challenge dominant narratives and promote social justice.

This book is intended for students and scholars of sound studies, Asian studies, history, postcolonial studies, and media studies. It provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to the study of sound in Asia, and it will be a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the complex and multifaceted nature of this region.

Weight: 730g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367698911