Pauline Oliveros wrote “Sonic Meditations” in 1971, and according to her Introduction I they “are intended for group work over a long period of time with regular meetings.” Changes brought about by the meditations “may represent a tuning of mind and body,” and “members of the Group may achieve greater awareness and sensitivity to each other.”
I found some interesting YouTube recordings of certain Sonic Meditations. Here is one of the mediation labeled “Teach Yourself to Fly”:
You may want to read Oliveros’ directions before watching the video:
When I started this video, I immediately noticed an atmosphere of anticipation and nervousness, with some of the musicians appearing fairly uncomfortable and fidgety. Others seem more natural and relaxed. I think there is something very vulnerable about creating free sound with other people, especially around an audience.
Because this video has a non-participatory audience, it made me question the purpose of performing this meditation in front of an audience. Isn’t the point of the meditations to serve as group work, improve individuals’ health and wellbeing, and promote closeness and understanding within the group? What would be the point of performing this? Would the audience gain anything? Doesn’t the nervousness detract from the group’s ability to benefit from the meditation?
Also, it is difficult to tell in the video, but it does not seem that the space has not been illuminated with a dim blue light as directed. Because Oliveros’ directions tend to be brief, every detail is important and I think it is important to follow them as closely as possible.
Here is a different video I found of another meditation:
I believe this video is the following mediation:
This video is interesting to watch simply because of how it was filmed and recorded, with the 360 degree view available. It also is different from the previous video in that everyone, as far as can be seen, is participating. I think this is preferable, rather than having the audience simply watch, as these meditations are meant to be group activities and not performative.
How do these videos make you feel as you watch them? Can you sense some discomfort? Excitement? Anticipation? Closeness? Joy?
Oliveros’ full Sonic Meditations can easily be found online, and I encourage you to try some for yourself, either alone or in a group. I think they would be great to do with an ensemble before a performance or as a break during rehearsals. Imagine how much better you would listen, and how much more trusting and understanding you would feel towards your fellow musicians. Let me know your thoughts and experiences in the comments!
