Found Sound — RSL Vocational Art and Design
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Found Sound explained
This subtopic focuses on the creative use of environmental sounds as the sole material for musical composition.
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Learners will develop skills in identifying, recording, and ethically sourcing sounds, then manipulating them to create original soundscapes or music. The practical application lies in sound design for media, installation art, and experimental music production.
Learning outcomes
- Identify a range of environmental sounds suitable for recording
- Apply safe recording practices when capturing sounds in the environment
- Compose a piece of music or soundscape using only found sounds
Show all 4 objectives
- Evaluate the creative and technical choices made during the composition process
Found Sound assessment help
Assessment Criteria
- Award credit for demonstrating a systematic approach to identifying and selecting sounds that meet the brief.
- Award credit for evidence of risk assessment and safe handling of recording equipment in the field.
- Award credit for the creative and effective manipulation of found sounds to achieve a coherent musical or narrative structure.
- Award credit for reflective commentary that links technical decisions to artistic intent.
Assessment Guidance
- 💡Always carry a risk assessment and obtain necessary permissions before recording in public or private spaces.
- 💡Experiment with different recording techniques (e.g., close-miking, ambient capture) to expand your sonic palette.
- 💡Keep a detailed recording journal to document your process, which will support your evaluation and evidence for assessment.
- 💡When composing, think about structure, dynamics, and texture to create a piece that is more than a random collection of sounds.
Common Mistakes
- Recording sounds without considering copyright or permission, especially in private or sensitive locations.
- Over-relying on digital effects rather than the inherent qualities of the found sounds.
- Neglecting to plan the recording session, leading to poor audio quality or missed opportunities.
- Failing to keep a log of recording locations and equipment settings, which hinders later editing and evaluation.
Unit assessment details
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