nada
the sound of silence
nada is an invitation to meditate with the sounds of the five elements, to heal body and mind with the songs from streams and rivers, from wind and trees, with harmonies that we intuitively relate to. this meditation practice highlights the relation between elements and emotions and our close connection to nature.
sculpted from the sounds of natural elements, these listening meditations are electroacoustic performances that draw from many years of practice as a composer and improviser, from qi gong, buddhist practice and meditation.
with the practice of mindfulness of listening, one is invited to reflect on perceptions, thoughts and reactions, on our connection to the elements internally and externally, as we delve deep into the observation of subtle sensations. all key aspects of buddhist meditation are integrated into this one practice, so there is no multiplicity of approaches.
the narratives that unfold, following the natural movements of the recordings, and the changes in mood during the performance keep the listener engaged while the live processing that playfully reshape known sounds may incite close attention conducive to meditative states of concentration.
another important aspect of the work is the use of resonant frequencies found in natural sounds, especially selecting and sculpting tonalities used in sound and vibrational therapy. it is like a gong bath, but using healing frequencies from nature: the harmonies are specific to a time and place, and the element recorded.
each performance is unique as i intuitively select the aesthetic, atmosphere and tonalities i use moment to moment. improvisation as approach and method allows me to adapt what sounds i use, what resonance to focus on, so the music flows and connects with the audience.
i offer these performances as livestreams on the bandcamp platform in a series called nada, so that people can meditate in the comfort of their home.
i am also available to travel to buddhist, meditation, yoga centres, etc. who are willing to accommodate such events for groups of experienced meditators.
technical details:
i use
1 performance laptop + usb audio interface
optional x2 microphones and mike stands [when using a collection of meditation bowls and bells, etc.]
1 streaming laptop + usb mixer
h5 zoom recorder
multiplug extension cable, misc connectivity
required from venue
power or extension cable to the performance area
low table and meditation seat
amplification – high quality stereo speakers, able to reproduce a high range of frequencies and wide stereo image [i can bring suitable speakers if needed, tbc]. possible multichannel diffusion via ADAT
additional – table or support for streaming laptop
stable wi-fi internet access for live stream
contact:
nexttimerv_at_hotmail_dot_com
reviews:
“I found this work intriguing and at times beguiling […] and I realised that by having more to pay attention to, my meditation sessions could be sustained for a longer time by Hervé’s listening meditations”
Benedict Jackson – dimensions-in-sound-and-space
*
It’s been a magical experience, following you in this sound journey, deeply
listening with open heart and ears.
Lukas M – audience member
*
Hervé’s live improvisations transport you onto a journey which is at once sensorially relaxing and awakening. Through his unique use of texture, rhythm and space he is able to keep the audience on their toes whilst grounding them into an uninterrupted state of flow from start to finish. A powerful sonic experience!
Lorenzo P – audience member
*
Thoroughly enjoyed falling back into the really clear three dimensional soundscape.
Dave P – audience member
*
These are absolutely magic journeys for drifting off… Thanks for the calming moments.
Phil I – audience member
*
*
audio examples
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
nexttime studio 