Soundscape Composition and Microsound

Abstract In this article, I present an overview of the challenges and opportunities inherent in soundscape composition, with particular emphasis on the theory of microsound, based on my involvement over more than 50 years with computer music. Specific issues involve the inner complexity of environmental sounds and their perception, often best described in terms of volume and texture. Additionally, I argue that acoustic space can be effectively recreated through multichannel diffusion systems, particularly when equipped with microlevel time delays for spatialization. Finally, soundscape composition can engage with both place-based environmental representations, ranging from the phonographic towards virtual spaces, as well as other real-world contexts and issues that can be addressed through sound. The article concludes with the assertion that composers and designers best serve their communities by understanding the complexities of environmental sound and its perception, in order to engage audiences and encourage reflective listening.