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.
Small World Music Ensemble
The Small World Music Ensemble is a Queensland-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, Small World Music Ensemble’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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Small World Music Ensemble 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 Small World Music Ensemble repertoire consists of either original compositions or traditional music, played with a depth of interpretation that comes from many years of experience in playing and listening to music from diverse cultures.
Our Team
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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
