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The Rhythmic Sounds of Nature

The Rhythmic Sounds of Nature project delves into the intricate relationship between the natural world and musical creativity. This research seeks to illuminate how composers draw inspiration from environmental elements, intertwining them within their musical compositions. The study scrutinizes existing patterns in both musical and non-musical realms, as articulated by Blacking (1974), exploring their resonance within natural environments.

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At the core of this doctoral project lies a comprehensive multimedia platform complemented by a world-fusion music calendar envisioned by Arash Zanganeh. This platform emerges from an extensive examination of rhythmic patterns inherent in natural sounds. Collaborating with the Diaspora's musicians, twelve musical pieces were meticulously crafted, each corresponding to a month of the year and intricately woven from data collected in the tranquil surroundings of Springbrook National Park.

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The multimedia website, thoughtfully structured across five digital pages, serves as a repository for both the research culmination and an immersive visitor experience. It encompasses pertinent literature reflecting the investigative journey, supplemented by a collection of 12 video clips meticulously filmed and captured within Springbrook National Park over a year-long period.

Diaspora 

Diaspora is a Brisbane-based diverse World music group that reflects the scattering of cultures and their musical traditions to far-flung places.

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Not content with solely drawing from tradition, Diaspora’s repertoire features largely original material that reflects the rich experience and influences of all four members. The result is vibrant, inspiring and exotic, with space for improvisation.

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Diaspora features long-time duo Sebastian Flynn (Fiddle) and Martin Reese (Mandolin, Banjo and Shruti Box), Christian Rizzalli (Bouzouki, Banjo, Guitar, Viola, Stomp Box and voice) and Arash Zanganeh (Daf (Persian Drum, Chaqana (Clay Pot), Tombek (Goblet Drum), Dayareh (Azerbaijani Frame Drum), Hang (Hand Pan Drum) and voice.

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The Diaspora repertoire is either original composition or traditional music played with a depth of interpretation that comes with many years of experience of playing and listening to music from many different cultures. 

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Diaspora

Our Team

Principal Supervisor: Prof. Georgina Barton

Associate Supervisor: Dr. Marthy Watson

Principal Investigator: Arash Zanganeh

Photographer: Christy Gallois

Sound Technician: William Kane-Potaka

Guest Vocals: Saman Sarami

Guest Musician: Amir Yarahmadi

Guest Musician: Linsey Pollak

Mixing | Mastering: Omid Rahro

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This research has been supported by an Australian Government Research Training Program Scholarship.

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