White Noise

Another week, another walk! We took a new route this time, and it was a bit more “urban,” closer to roads with more people and more traffic. We had a (loose) goal to notice combinations of sounds.
 
Started at the music building fountain to focus ourselves and our listening.
 
Through the median, framed by plants but with cars driving on both sides.
 
One LOUD motorcycle. One quiet bus. (Unexpected sound to size relationship.)
 
Cars. Bicycles. People.
 
Stopped in a space with multiple fountains surrounding us. It was further away from the road noise, but still foot traffic and conversations all around.
 
Skateboards. Sharp sounds because of the hard wheels.
 
Down a sidewalk lined with palm trees. People. Groups. Conversations.
 
Into a building. Stark difference. Quiet within these walls. Our footsteps seem loud now. Lights humming.
 
Out again, past steel drums.

Into a secluded garden area. Quiet at first.
 
Then a plane.
 
An AC unit.
 
Bird sounds bouncing around the walls.

We sat in the “secret garden” for a while before talking about the walk. We discussed the “white noise” sounds we heard all throughout the walk and how other sounds would jump out in juxtaposition. The constant noises (engines, fountains, buildings, etc.) made me reflect on what’s constant in my life. Having this contemplative experience was a nice new part of soundwalking for me.
 
February 21, 2018
5:45 - 6:15pm
Temperature in the 50s/60s, sunny
 
Until next time!

P.S. - All are welcome to join our next walk!