A soundscape shows a place — Art, 4–6
Many sounds together can make you imagine a place, such as a forest, a kitchen or a busy street. You can choose, layer and stop sounds to create that place for someone else to hear.
Make a place with sounds
A soundscape is a group of sounds that helps you imagine where you are. For a seaside scene, you might use a soft “shhh” for waves, tapping fingers for rain and a whistle for a bird. The sounds do not have to be exact recordings; together, they give your listener a place to picture.
Why combine sounds?
One sound can be hard to identify, especially when it is made with an unusual object. Combining a few clear sounds solves this problem by giving the listener more clues. Artists have long used groups of sounds in theatre, films and stories to make a place feel real without showing it.
Build a rainy street
First, rub two hands together quietly to make wind. Next, tap one finger on a table for small raindrops, then use two fingers for heavier rain. Add three slow foot stamps for someone walking through puddles. Finally, stop the wind and rain and ring a small bell once for a bus arriving.
More noise is not always better
A common mistake is making every sound loudly at the same time. It feels exciting because each sound wants to be heard, but then the listener cannot separate the clues. Keep some sounds quiet, leave a little space between them and choose which one should be noticed first.
Sound can set a scene
Soundscapes appear in films, radio stories, theatre and games. A few footsteps and a creaking door can make you imagine a dark hallway, even when you see only a screen or a stage. You can make one for a story at home, using your body and safe objects instead of special equipment.
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