BBC Music launched an experiment that investigates how people respond to different kinds of digital nature experiences. The study, called "Soundscapes of Wellbeing," is part of a collaboration between BBC Music and the University of Exeter, and its aim is to connect audiences with nature through creative TV, radio and online programming.
The experiment explores the emotions people feel when they engage with natural environments through varying digital formats including visual scenes, immersive natural sound and big budget wildlife documentaries. Award-winning film composer, Nainita Desai, and renowned sound recordist, Chris Watson, helped create the study, led by Welcome Trust fund PhD student Alex Smalley.
“We’ve assembled an amazing team to create this experiment, which fuses approaches from the arts, natural history, and science. We’re hoping as many people as possible will take part, and help us understand how best to bring virtual experiences of nature to those who can’t easily get outside," explained Smalley.
The experiment was hosted online and open to anyone 18 years of age or older, and it takes roughly 10 minutes to complete. Highlights of the study will include:
- Gillian Burke of "Winterwatch" creating her own soundscapes for Radio 3’s "Slow Radio"
- Lauren Laverne speaking with guests from the world of nature, including the founder of Black Girls Hike, Nainita Desai
- Chris Watson in conversation with Kate Molleson on Radio 3’s "Music Matters"
- Chris Packham interviewing Alex Smalley on BBC Two’s "Winterwatch"
Take part in the study here.
