From 16-18 May 2001 we hosted an audio collage workshop at Lighthouse in Brighton Media Centre, in association with Hove Music Library. We took the six participants to the Library where they chose a number of audio CDs each that they would be sourcing from to make new audio work. We then showed them how to manipulate this using the Pro Tools Free editing software, presentating our own and contemporaries' audio/video work, explaining how the different techniques of these artists can be applied to audio collage making.
There were six participants for the workshop, which was the required amount. They all had very basic knowledge in computers and all arrived enthusiastic and eager to broaden their outlook ad knowledge of audio collage. We feel that the initial input of our arts practice and reference to contemporary audio artists founded a strong context for the participants to start from. It created a relationship where we could offer assistance from the experience of being makers and suggest approaches and techniques.
The participants bonded as a group encouraged by discussions at intervals and a very successful session of Ômusical chairsÕ, where, all the audio collage sessions were edited by each person for a short period and then listened to as a group and discussed. This approach was used to free peopleÕs creative input and was both rewarding and fun.
Everybody pointed out that to be able to meet other people with like minds and an interest in sound was an initial aim and they spoke of staying in contact in the future in regard to sharing ideas and networking. It was agreed that this was a great introduction to using Pro Tools and that they would continue to use this programme: "É IÕve been introduced to the fun side of sound and enjoyed myself immenselyÉ" "(I have gained through) an introduction to Pro Tools software and the basic knowledge to be able to carry on teaching myself at homeÉ" "I was quite amazed to hear how other people make work."