In Memoriam R. Murray Schafer.pdf

Raymond Murray Schafer, a Canadian composer and "father of acoustic ecology," passed away on August 14, 2021. He was known for his work on the World Soundscape Project and his book "The Tuning of the World" (later retitled "Soundscape"), which introduced a non-technical vocabulary for describing acoustic environments.

The CENSE Almanac 2021 is dedicated to Schafer's memory and explores the concept of sonic ecology, which was introduced by Schafer about 50 years ago. The term refers to the study of the relationship between sound and the environment, and it is still somewhat enigmatic today.

The almanac features a questionnaire on acoustic ecology, which was sent to CENSE members and other interested individuals in Central and Eastern Europe. The responses, along with three short overviews on the history of environmental sound in Czechoslovakia, Poland, and Hungary, provide a framework for understanding the concept of sonic ecology in the region.

The publication includes contributions from over 30 individuals, including artists, researchers, and scientists, who share their thoughts and experiences on acoustic ecology. The almanac is available as a free download and aims to foster environmental awareness and promote the importance of listening and thinking about sound in our daily lives.

Key topics and themes explored in the almanac include:

The history and development of acoustic ecology in Central and Eastern Europe
The relationship between sound and the environment
The importance of listening and thinking about sound in our daily lives
The role of art, science, and activism in promoting environmental awareness
* The impact of environmental changes, such as climate change and urbanization, on soundscapes and ecosystems.

Overall, the CENSE Almanac 2021 provides a unique perspective on the concept of sonic ecology and its relevance to our understanding of the world around us.