How does sound shape our understanding of reality?

How do we draw a line between noise and music? Does a melodic element indicate a sonic structure that differentiates the random, mostly toneless characteristics of noise from the acoustically well-organised notes?

Since the time of John Cage and Karlheinz Stockhausen, composers have been interested in breaking the barrier between modern music and everyday sounds. Today, artists are questioning this perceptual distinction by creating multimedia installations in which sonic elements of all kinds interact with their physical surroundings – be it light, architecture, or else. The results are layers upon layers of intricate soundscapes that combine familiar sounds with sonic randomness.

By drawing inspiration from history, tradition, and the science of sound, British multidisciplinary artist Haroon Mirza creates immersive audio-visual installations that investigate the behavioural pattern of the audience when confronted with new acoustic experiences.

Mirza studies sound frequencies and their impact on the human mind by bringing to life mesmerising kinetic sculptures, where electricity and generative audio give rise to a unique sensory experience.

Watch the video to immerse yourself in Haroon Mirza’s exploration of how frequencies interact with our consciousness and his installations exploring the boundaries of sound – hearing and listening, noise and music, physical and metaphysical.

Part of Sound Makers, a series shining the spotlight on unique personalities shaping our everyday soundscapes: how they began their journey of creating sounds, what inspires and drives them, and the process behind bringing their magic to life.

Writer | Marco Sebastiano Alessi

Marco is an Italian music producer, composer and writer. He’s the founder of Naviar Records, a music community and record label exploring the connection between experimental electronic music and traditional Japanese poetry.

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