Sonic Pasts: Acoustical Heritage and Historical Soundscapes

Sonic Pasts explores the fields of acoustical heritage and historical soundscapes through an interdisciplinary perspective. Reflecting on different methods of research and dissemination, it critiques biases related to race, ethnicity, gender, socioeconomics, and disability that are intrinsic to these fields.

Academically rigorous while also deeply personal, Sonic Pasts introduces readers to how various disciplines have studied the sounds of the past, the connection those studies have to heritage more widely, including the concept of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH), and how sound is represented within UNESCO heritage listings. It offers a novel theoretical and practical framework on different approaches to the design of sound installations and online experiences on the topic, including the ethical challenges presented by different techniques.

This book is essential reading for students and researchers considering sounds of the past, as well as sound and heritage practitioners seeking to reflect on their current or future practices.

Mariana J López is a Professor at the University of York. Her research focuses on two fields: the interdisciplinary study of acoustical heritage and historical soundscapes; and the use of sound design to create accessible experiences for visually impaired film and television audiences.