Sound, Music and the Environment

Join us for a panel discussion bringing together composers, sound artists, and researchers to explore the intersections of sound, music, and environment. We will investigate how place and environment shape creative work, how we perceive our everyday soundscapes, and how artistic practices can raise awareness of acoustic ecology.

Speakers

Professor Bill Davies (University of Salford)

Bill Davies is a leading researcher in soundscape studies, psychoacoustics, and aural diversity. His work investigates how humans perceive and respond to complex sound environments. He is currently Director of LAURA at the University of Salford, other previous major projects include the Positive Soundscape Project and S3A: Future Spatial Audio.

Hayley Suviste (University of Manchester)

Hayley Suviste is a sound artist and composer working with field recordings, archival material, and oral histories. Her work explores community, culture, and environment, often focusing on Manchester’s rural and urban narratives through interviews and collaboration. Her practice spans installation, immerisve audio, live performance, and long–form composition.

Dr. David Vélez (Independent / University of Huddersfield)

David Vélez is a Colombian sound artist, composer, and researcher whose interdisciplinary practice engages field recordings, found objects, and acoustic ecology. His work often examines the acoustics of plants and ecosystems. Recent projects include The Calder in Your Bones, which uses underwater and subterranean recordings of the River Calder to explore environmental themes and material resonance.

Emily Zurowski (University of Salford / Spirit Studios)

Emily Zurowski is a Scottish composer, sound designer, and performer based in Manchester. Her practice encompasses immersive, interactive, and socially engaged projects. She regularly collaborates with filmmaker Maire Tracey (BBC, National Geographic) and has performed with artists such as The Orielles and WH Lung. Emily is currently developing an immersive audio project with Manchester communities focused on green spaces threatened by urban development.

Chair: Dr. Simon Connor (University of Salford)

Simon Connor is a lecturer, composer, and sound designer whose research and practice explores the intersection of field recording and instrumental composition, particularly within audiovisual landscapes.