Sounds of the Pandemic: Accounts, Experiences, Perspectives in Times of COVID-19

Sounds of the Pandemic offers one of the first critical analyses of the changes in sonic environments, artistic practice, and listening behaviour caused by the Coronavirus outbreak.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 01 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The book "Sounds of the Pandemic: An Exploration of the Changes in Sonic Environments, Artistic Practice, and Listening Behaviour" offers a comprehensive and critical analysis of the profound changes that the Coronavirus outbreak has brought about in the realm of sound and music. This multifaceted collection provides a detailed account of a wide range of phenomena related to sound and music, encompassing soundscapes, music production, music performance, and the mediatization processes associated with COVID-19. By presenting a comprehensive picture of these diverse aspects, the book serves as a valuable first step toward understanding the impact of the pandemic and its subsequent consequences on sound domains, encompassing experiences, practices, representations, collective imaginaries, and socio-political manipulations.

This book is of utmost importance for students, researchers, and practitioners engaged in the fields of music production and performance, musicology and ethnomusicology, sound studies, and media and cultural studies. It offers valuable insights and perspectives that will aid in their understanding of the evolving landscape of sound and music in the context of the pandemic.

The book is organized into several chapters, each dedicated to exploring different aspects of the changes in sonic environments, artistic practice, and listening behaviour during the pandemic. The first chapter provides an introduction to the topic, setting the stage for the subsequent chapters by highlighting the significance of sound and music in our lives and the ways in which they have been affected by the pandemic.

The second chapter delves into the impact of lockdowns and social distancing measures on soundscapes, exploring how the absence of human activity and the proliferation of artificial sounds have transformed the urban and natural environments. The authors examine the changes in noise levels, the emergence of new sounds, and the ways in which these changes have affected our perception and experience of the world.

The third chapter explores the effects of the pandemic on music production and performance, examining how artists have adapted to the challenges posed by the lockdowns and social distancing measures. The authors discuss the use of digital technologies, remote collaboration, and the emergence of new genres and styles as artists sought to navigate the changing landscape of the music industry.

The fourth chapter focuses on the impact of the pandemic on music performance, examining how musicians have adapted to the challenges of performing in virtual spaces and the ways in which audiences have engaged with music during this time. The authors explore the use of live streaming, virtual concerts, and other forms of digital performance as well as the challenges and opportunities that these new modes of performance have presented.

The fifth chapter explores the mediatization processes associated with COVID-19, examining how the pandemic has influenced the way. The authors discuss the role of media in shaping public perception, the spread of misinformation, and the ways in which media has contributed to the emotional and psychological impact of the pandemic.

The final chapter provides a conclusion that summarizes the key findings of the book and highlights the importance of continued research and exploration in this field. The authors call for a more interdisciplinary approach to studying the impact of the pandemic on sound and music, drawing on insights from various fields such as psychology, sociology, and environmental studies.

In conclusion, "Sounds of the Pandemic: An Exploration of the Changes in Sonic Environments, Artistic Practice, and Listening Behaviour" is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and critical analysis of the profound changes that the Coronavirus outbreak has brought about in the realm of sound and music. This multifaceted collection provides a detailed account of a wide range of phenomena related to sound and music, encompassing soundscapes, music production, music performance, and the mediatization processes associated with COVID-19. By presenting a comprehensive picture of these diverse aspects, the book serves as a valuable first step toward understanding the impact of the pandemic and its subsequent consequences on sound domains, encompassing experiences, practices, representations, collective imaginaries, and socio-political manipulations. This book is of utmost importance for students, researchers, and practitioners engaged in the fields of music production and performance, musicology and ethnomusicology, sound studies, and media and cultural studies. It offers valuable insights and perspectives that will aid in their understanding of the evolving landscape of sound and music in the context of the pandemic.

Weight: 570g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032060231