Dawn - An Ambient Isolation Soundscape Composition

Since the globe went into lockdown a few weeks ago, many of us have noticed the significant shift in our sonic landscape. Most apparent in urban spaces, the restrictions on our daily lives have emptied the streets and stopped the constant noise pollution from air and road traffic. Suddenly there is more sonic bandwidth and clarity. Much subtler and quieter sounds are revealed. The soundscape seems much calmer and more defined. Birds, it seems, are more vocal than ever.

The Ambient Isolation project was started to bring together an ever-growing number of experienced field recordists from all over the world, who are capturing and documenting these sonic changes and sharing the results.

Dawn is a soundscape composition created from 67 field recordings made in various time zones in the early hours of April 25th, 2020. Each contributor was invited to submit a one-minute recording from their lockdown location.

Following the sun rising over the International Date Line, the recordings are presented chronologically and geographically from east to west. Starting in Wellington, New Zealand and finishing in Vancouver on the Pacific coast of Canada.

The listener is invited to observe the small, and under normal circumstances drowned out, sounds at daybreak from five continents from the same moment in time.

We were interested to hear the connection between these global locations and wanted to explore soundscapes in other parts of the world while we have the opportunity to really listen. 

The environmental benefits of the lockdown in terms of reduced air pollution and improved water quality have been much talked about. Active listening to birdsong also has a positive effect on well-being and mental health. We hope that our piece gives listeners a connection to the natural world and brings some joy and peace during these unprecedented times.

The composition is released on May 3rd, 2020 to celebrate International Dawn Chorus Day.

Many thanks to all the contributors.

Ambient Isolation

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