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Aesthetic Noise: The Philosophy of Intentional Listening considers the complex nature of noise within the framework of philosophical filtering, examining how, if noise is engaged with aesthetically, it can produce profound experiences and understandings.
Applying the philosophies of Edmund Burke, Martin Heidegger, Jacque Derrida, and Julia Kristeva to works by Luigi Russolo, John Cage, Steve Reich, Alison Knowles, Annea Lockwood, Alyce Santoro, and Sunn O))), this book explores noise as an art material, and ultimately how it can become a tool for activism and expanded creative possibilities. It demonstrates that, by engaging multiple philosophies in concert, the value of aesthetic noise is amplified, thus allowing the listener to better appreciate noise and its possibilities.
Providing greater insights into noise as an aesthetic material, Aesthetic Noise will be of interest to researchers and students of sound studies, philosophy, and sound art, as well as sound designers, artists, musicians, and composers.
List of contents
1. Aesthetic Noise: An Origin Story 2. Aesthetic Noise: A Continuation 3. Can Noise Be Beautiful? An Exploration of Noise Through Burke's Empiricism 4. Noise Through the Filters of Al theia and the Four Causes as Elucidated by Heidegger 5. The Truth in Noise: Aesthetic Noise Through the Filter of Derrida's Parergon 6. Transduction of the Abject: Noise, Kristeva, Abjection, and Purification
About the author
Mary G. Mazurek is a GRAMMY-nominated recording engineer, artist/philosopher, and educator. Her classical engineering nomination was for
Liquid Melancholy on Çedille. She has published on the topics of aesthetic noise, audio, and DEI, and is currently an assistant professor at the University of Lethbridge, Canada.
Summary
Aesthetic Noise: The Philosophy of Intentional Listening considers the complex nature of noise within the framework of philosophical filtering, examining how, if noise is engaged with aesthetically, it can produce profound experiences and understandings.
Report
'In her book on Aesthetic Noise, Professor Mary Mazurek has given us a splendid philosophical critique of noise. More than that, she has introduced a whole new field of critical inquiry. Her contribution to the history of aesthetics will not be soon forgotten.'
George Smith, PhD, Founder and President Emeritus, IDSVA
'Aesthetic Noise makes a unique contribution to the field of noise art. In carefully listening to what we commonly think of as noise, we upend our habitual aversion to it, opening it up to a fascinating aesthetic exploration. This book bridges the gap between philosophy and practice, providing much-needed literature in this expanding field.'
Ellen Grabiner, PhD, Professor Emerita, Gwen Ifill Media, Arts, and Humanities, Simmons College
'It stands out as a significant contribution to the literature on noise music, contemporary discussions about aesthetics, and music technology repertoire. This interdisciplinary text serves as a fine addition to curricula across music, music technology, philosophy, and critical studies. It is a thought-provoking read for students, scholars, music technologists, and audio engineers who are seeking ways to understand and/or language to discuss noise. Without reservation, I wholeheartedly encourage readers to use this text to intentionally listen and reexamine their aesthetic ideas about noise.'
Alexandria Smith, The Journal of the Audio Engineering Society
'Aesthetic Noise is more than Advanced Music Appreciation. It is a bridge between the neuroscience of This is What It Sounds Like by Susan Rogers and the manifesto of An Individual Note by Daphne Oram. It is part of the canon to redefine what music composition and art can look like.'
Nicole Kirch, SoundGirls
