From All Sides: Spatial Sound Forum 2025 Open Call
Embracing “Ma” in Sonic Spaces
We are excited to announce the call for submissions for our upcoming festival, dedicated to exploring multi-spatial audio and contemporary electro-acoustic music composition. This year, we invite artists, composers and sound designers to create works inspired by the Japanese concept of “ma” (間). The event will take place April 9 - 11, 2025
Deadline: Monday 3 March 💥submit application HERE
/// What is “ma”?
"Ma" refers to the space or interval between two parts, an emptiness that holds potential and allows elements to interact in a meaningful way. It is a fundamental principle in Japanese aesthetics, emphasizing the importance of the void and the relationships between sounds, silences, and spaces. "Ma" is about the beauty found in the pauses, the transitions, and the interplay of presence and absence.
/// Submission guidelines:
Conceptual relevance:
- Submissions must creatively engage with the concept of “ma” within the context of multi-spatial audio and electro-acoustic music.
- Works should explore the interplay between sound and silence, space and structure, presence and absence.
- Works can be composed for multi-channel sound systems
- Submissions should include a detailed description of the spatial audio setup and technical requirements.
- Audio formats accepted: WAV, AIFF, or other high-quality audio files.
Documentation:
- A written statement (Max 500 words) explaining how your work interprets and incorporates the concept of “ma.”
- A visual diagram or description of the intended spatial arrangement of the audio components.
- Artist bio + links to online profile
- Press image
Submission process:
- Deadline for submissions:
- Submit your works via [submission platform or email] this form
- Include all required documentation and audio files in a single submission package.
Selection criteria:
- Artistic and conceptual alignment with the theme.
- Innovative use of multi-spatial audio techniques.
- Technical quality and feasibility of the proposed setup.
- Originality and creativity in interpreting “ma.”
⭐ Submissions are open to all students, alumni and staff!