The Sonic Augmented Reality (SonAR) project [designed by the composer] explores the artistic potential of smartphone-based music connected to the environment of its locale. This connection is inspirational, logistic, and literal.

The music of SonAR Study I is composed of 11 different audio tracks. Each track is inspired by the actual ambient sound(s) that dominate various locations on the St. Cloud State University campus. These sounds were identified and selected by conducting soundwalks, documenting what I heard and what my ear was drawn to. In response to these soundwalks, I created synthesized sound tracks (with the exception of the piano track, recorded in the Performing Arts Center Ruth Gant Recital Hall).

The smartphone version is experienced by downloading an app, which includes a map displaying the listener’s physical position on the campus during playback. Each track plays back from virtual speakers located in different campus locations, generally corresponding to the source of the individual inspirational sounds. As the listener navigates campus, GPS tracking compares the phone location relative to the virtual speaker locations. The 11 audio track levels are adjusted based on the listener’s proximity to the virtual sound sources, changing the “mix” of the tracks. Some locations on campus will completely obscure the presence of some tracks. Different paths through campus will produce unique musical experiences with the same audio tracks. This recording is one possible realization of the piece.   -Scott L. Miller