MISE-EN x ARETE 2026 Concert Series: “Environs”

The Environs series  invites audiences into a series of introspective microcosms through deep listening, field recording explorations, experimental electronics and chamber music. Featured artists are Vivienne Aerts, Melinda Faylor, Hitomi Honda, Akio Makuno, and Charles Waters as well as pianist and composer Steven Long for two nights of his Graphic Content Festival celebrating the centennial of both Morton Feldman and Earle Brown.

Melinda Faylor – selections from Everyday, a Hero and her new album Settlements/Sanctuaries

“Everyday, a Hero” 

Using a catalogue of single sound sources, this intimate and visceral set of pieces delves into the life of objects as microcosms for the zeitgeist. Featured will be Belle of the Ball (jar) and Grind.

Settlements/Sanctuaries combines piano improvisation with abstracted and re-created field recordings and is part of a series of experiments in notating and reproducing field recordings from different locations. “On Burden Lake Road” for processed piano sounds and electronics was inspired by approximately 8 minutes of time spent sitting on the porch in mid morning.

Humans have evolved to co-regulate their nervous systems with the presence of birds and birdsong. These field recording experiments reflect on ideas of sanctuary, control, and humanity’s relationship with nature. They are also, simply, an exploration of birdsong.