Cryophonics

Re-Performing the Ice Songs of the Canadian Sub-Arctic

Abstract

In a context that has expanded to the global stage, the Canadian North has become a sparring ground for environmentalists, politicians, and industry. In all the commotion, the sounds made by non-human organisms and elements are falling by the wayside. I seek to address this imbalance by highlighting sub-Arctic sounds through music. Looking specifically at the cryophonics (ice sounds) of Great Slave Lake, I will first examine particular acoustic properties of this environment and secondly my creative products that have resulted from in-depth study.