Echoes from the Edge: A Mission to Raise Awareness of the Importance of Audio in a Visually Dominant World

George Vlad

Professional Sound Designer

Recordist

Composer

George Vlad, a professional sound designer, recordist, and composer, packed his bags and set off on an adventure to Patagonia. His goal was more than just braving extreme weather conditions and noisy environments to record sounds.

Armed with four Rycote Nano Shields, and a Rycote BD-10 microphone, George was on a mission to capture the unheard symphony of nature, to bring attention to the significance of sound in our visually saturated world and the unique beauty that lies within the noise of our acoustically polluted globe. His journey wasn't just about collecting sounds; it was about making us listen.

George, can you tell us about your recent adventure to Patagonia and what inspired this journey?

George Vlad: As a sound designer, recordist, and composer, I've always been drawn to sounds that aren't easily accessible. This fascination drives me to capture and reproduce these unique sounds from around the world. The thrill of recording in untouched sound environments is indescribable. However, it's becoming increasingly challenging due to the expanding human footprint. In Patagonia, I sought to bring attention to the often-ignored auditory essence of nature, which gets lost in the noise of urban life.

Rycote Uncovered: George Vlad's Expedition to Patagonia

George Vlad, a professional sound designer, recordist, and composer, packed his bags and set off on an adventure to Patagonia. His goal was more than just braving extreme weather conditions and noisy environments to record sounds.

Armed with four Rycote Nano Shields, and a Rycote BD-10 microphone, George was on a mission to capture the unheard symphony of nature, to bring attention to the significance of sound in our visually saturated world and the unique beauty that lies within the noise of our acoustically polluted globe. His journey wasn't just about collecting sounds; it was about making us listen.

What were the challenges you faced during this expedition?

George Vlad: Patagonia's diverse and unpredictable weather conditions posed a significant challenge. We often experienced "four seasons in a day," with the climate shifting rapidly from strong winds to heavy rain. Restrictions on off-track wandering and traffic noise also made it difficult to capture pristine forest sounds. However, we found a secluded spot shielded by a large hill after an 8-hour uphill hike, which provided a tranquil place for recording.

What makes Rycote products special to you? Can you share the advantages you've experienced using Rycote's equipment?

George Vlad: Absolutely. The blimps were amazing - they kept my mics dry during downpours and periods of high humidity. They enabled me to record in places where I wouldn't have been able to otherwise. I have to be very selective about the kit I take with me - it has to work - if it lets me down, I can’t use it again. Rycote products passed this test with flying colours.

What impact do you hope your expedition will have?

George Vlad: My mission was to amplify these muted sounds, highlighting the beauty that lies beyond the noise of urban life. I hope this expedition brings attention to the significance of sound in our visually saturated world and paves the way for future explorations.
 

George Vlad's expedition to Patagonia stands as a testament to the potential of sound recording in extreme conditions and paves the way for future explorations.