Presented by The Radiophonic Institute and the Museum Of Sound, The Sound Of The Year Awards is an annual competition celebrating sonic life in its many forms from across the globe. We caught up with Max Greening, winner of the Sound Of The City award, which celebrates “the sounds that define your city and offer a platform to document the ways that cities are changing around the world”
Tell us about what’s happening in your recording…
“I was on a walk with my partner’s family in a public park in Zhengzhou, China. They walked ahead while I stayed to record. I was a bit embarrassed to be pacing around with the mic. There was practically no one else there at the time – the conditions were perfect for recording.”
Your immediate reaction after making it?
“It was early on in the trip, so this recording set the tone nicely. I was pleased to find such good material.”
How do you feel listening to it now?
“I’ll have to learn what the voices are saying exactly!”
What’s your background in recording sound?
“I’m a sound designer for video games. I studied sound design for visual media at Vancouver Film School, and I’ve worked on all kinds of projects – films, animation, advertising. I’ve also made a lot of electronic music and sound art.”
What inspires you?
“This is a good question. I’ve been trying to answer that lately. I used to record with the intention of sampling for music, but I’ve moved on from that. Anything I record can be added to my sound library, which is great. Really, I’m often reaching for that feeling of exploration or wonder you get from engaging with art.”
The best advice you’ve ever been given or would give?
“All things in moderation.”
If you could only ever record one more thing, what would it be?
“A family gathering. I’d record everyone’s voices.”
To find out more about the Sound Of The Year Awards, go to soundoftheyearawards.com
