Date of Submission
5-2023
Type of Work
Dissertation
Principal Supervisor
Dr. Toby Wren
Associate Supervisor
Dr. Jack Williams
Keywords
Spatial audio; 360/ 3D audio; immersive audio; ambisonics; binaural; azimuth; elevation; distance, soundscape composition; field recordings, virtual reality (VR), VR headset & hand controllers; immersion; attentional demand; internal spherical listening space; sound objects; movement; practice-based research
Audience
General (G) - suitable for everyone
Abstract
What are the possibilities of 360 audio to enhance the benefits of sound and music? This paper and its accompanying audio piece explores the potential deepening of immersion through adding an attentional element via movement to the sounds and music in an audio soundscape. The paper will argue through literature review and reflection, and demonstrate through its audio content, that adding this spatial element to audio material gives the brain additional attentional anchors to follow and assists in deepening immersion as a result. Why does immersion matter? Listening to music has multiple effects on the structural and functional arrangement of brain circuitry and new insights reveal that music therapy as a non-pharmacological intervention can assist with cognitive decline and to alleviate the symptoms of severe illnesses. Music is now known to change the chemistry of the brain, it evokes an emotional response, triggers memories and may lead to positive long term changes in brain neuroplasticity (Speranza, 2022, p. 796) . If a listening experience can have beneficial implications physically, mentally and emotionally then the more immersed in that experience one is the more potential benefit there could be.
Recommended Citation
Blackman, N. (2023). Slow Down. A Sound (e)scape. A Sound idea for Life [Masters dissertation, SAE University College]. Creo.