Tempe Public Library

Hearing vs. Listening: A Workshop on Conscious Engagement

Picture yourself walking through the lively streets of a bustling city. Close your eyes for a moment—what sounds do you notice?

Picture yourself walking through the lively streets of a bustling city. Close your eyes for a moment—what sounds do you notice? Each sound contributes a distinct layer to the urban symphony, yet what you perceive is only a small part of the rich auditory landscape surrounding you. Now, what if I told you there’s a way to deepen your listening skills and truly immerse yourself in this environment?

Immerse yourself in a transformative workshop that explores the distinction between hearing and listening, focusing on active, passive, and responsive listening. Combining the innovative practices inspired by visionary composer and sonic thinker Pauline Oliveros, and composer and sound ecologist Hildegard Westerkamp, this experiential workshop invites participants to explore the profound connection between sound, space, and consciousness.

In this session, we will:
• Explore Deep Listening: Learn about Oliveros' concept of "Deep Listening," which emphasizes the importance of being present with sounds and understanding their context. Through discussions and exercises, we will delve into how this practice can enhance our perception and enrich our daily lives.
• Engage in Soundwalking: Discover the practice of soundwalking as a method to heighten awareness of the sounds around us. Participants will be guided through a variety of exercises, focusing on the auditory landscape and cultivating a deep, meditative listening experience.
• Reflect: Participate in reflective discussions after each exercise, sharing insights and experiences in a communal atmosphere of exploration and creativity.

Who Should Attend: This workshop is open to anyone interested in enhancing their listening skills, including artists, musicians, educators, and anyone curious about the soundscapes that shape our lives. Join us to deepen your awareness of the world around you through the power of listening and experience how attentive listening can open new dimensions of creativity, connection, and understanding.

Bio:

Breanna Plummer is a dedicated doctoral student in musicology at Arizona State University, where she is exploring the intersections of sound, environment, and technology. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Music from Wittenberg University and a Master of Music with a concentration in Musicology from Texas State University.

Breanna’s research interests encompass electronic and experimental music, sound studies, and acoustic ecology. In 2024, she presented her research, “The Sensual Nature of Sound: Connecting with the Sounds Around Us,” at the American Musicology Society Southwest Chapter Meeting, showcasing her commitment to engaging with the auditory landscape. Driven by a passion for enhancing our understanding of sound and its influence on our lives, Breanna strives to contribute to the dynamic conversations within the field of musicology.

Upcoming events