Exploring the Ecologies of Music and Sound: Environmental, Mental and Social Ecologies in Music, Sound Art and Artivisms

Makis Solomos investigates the relationship between music, sound, and the environment, drawing inspiration from Felix Guattari's ecosophical perspective. He explores environmental, mental, and social ecologies through the history of music and contemporary art practices, including acoustic ecology, sound art, and ecomusicology. Solomos discusses theoretical and analytical debates such as sound milieus, the biopolitics of sound, music and the living world, soundscape compositions, and the use of sound and music for both positive and violent purposes. He also examines the social and political functions of music and the autonomy of art, sonic ecofeminism, degrowth in music, and more.

Format: Hardback
Length: 278 pages
Publication date: 07 April 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Makis Solomos delves into the intricate connections between music and sound, drawing inspiration from Felix Guattari's profound understanding of the ecological implications of capitalism. Guattari sees the destruction of the environment as closely linked to the decline in human well-being and emotions. In response, he advocates for an ecosophical perspective that combines diverse ecological registers, offering a glimpse of emancipation. Today, this position is further reinforced by intersectional approaches.

Solomos examines the multifaceted ecologies of the environment, mind, and society through the lens of music history and contemporary artistic movements, particularly in the domains of acoustic ecology, contemporary music, and sound art. He presents several theoretical and analytical discussions, encompassing a sound milieu theory, the biopolitics of sound, the intricate relationships between music and the natural world, the composition of soundscapes, field recordings, ecomusicology, the creation of sound biotopes, the ethical considerations of using sound and music for violent purposes, as well as exploring the social and political functions of music and the autonomy of art.

Furthermore, Solomos delves into topics such as sonic ecofeminism, degrowth in music, and the transformative potential of sound. His work sheds light on the intricate interplay between music, ecology, and social justice, challenging us to reimagine our relationship with the natural world and explore new avenues for artistic expression and social change.

Weight: 554g
Dimension: 162 x 241 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032184234