Sonic Encounters: The Islamic Call to Prayer

Sonic Encounters explores the Islamic Call to Prayer through field recordings, discussing technologies, methods, and ethical considerations, using sound studies to explore artistic research methods and practices in ethnography.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 218 pages
Publication date: 11 April 2024
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

Sonic Encounters: The Islamic Call to Prayer is a captivating book that delves into the author's journey of gathering field recordings of the Islamic Call to Prayer. It explores various aspects of this unique and profound sound, addressing key questions and challenges encountered along the way. The book also delves into the technologies and methods used for recording, the ethical considerations involved in working with Islamic communities, and the artistic possibilities that arise from ethnographic research. Through a sound studies framework, the book examines artistic research methods and practices in ethnography, specifically focusing on religious recitation.

The author's personal experience is woven throughout the book, providing a unique perspective on the Islamic Call to Prayer. They share their struggles and triumphs in capturing the essence of this sound, and the insights they gained from their interactions with Islamic communities. The book also includes interviews with scholars and practitioners who have studied the Islamic Call to Prayer, providing further insights into its cultural and religious significance.

One of the key themes of the book is the importance of sound in religious practice. The author argues that sound is not just a physical phenomenon but also a spiritual one, and that it plays a crucial role in the Islamic Call to Prayer. They explore the various techniques used to create the sound, including the use of microphones, speakers, and recording equipment. They also discuss the different styles of recitation and the cultural variations that exist within the Islamic world.

Another important aspect of the book is the ethical considerations involved in working with Islamic communities. The author acknowledges that there are many sensitivities and cultural differences that must be taken into account when recording the Islamic Call to Prayer. They provide guidelines for ethical conduct and suggest ways in which researchers can work respectfully with Islamic communities.

The book also explores the artistic possibilities that arise from ethnographic research. The author argues that ethnographic research can provide a rich source of inspiration for artists, and that it can help to bridge cultural divides. They provide examples of artists who have used ethnographic research to create works of art that explore the Islamic Call to Prayer.

In conclusion, Sonic Encounters: The Islamic Call to Prayer is a fascinating book that explores the Islamic Call to Prayer from a sound studies framework. It provides a unique perspective on the sound, the technologies and methods used for recording, the ethical considerations involved in working with Islamic communities, and the artistic possibilities that arise from ethnographic research. The author's personal experience is woven throughout the book, providing a valuable insight into the Islamic Call to Prayer. Whether you are interested in music, religion, or cultural studies, this book is a must-read.

Weight: 345g
Dimension: 227 x 150 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538164082