Listen, record, stream, diffuse, listen. The technological approach to soundscapes by Bill Fontana

Abstract

This essay aims to demonstrate the work of Bill Fontana in the realm of sound art practice; both in regards to his considerable contribution to the art form, and as a pioneer of the use of sonic transmission technology. With regard to the technology and the changes between the configuration of his original historical works and the technological development, three fields of his activity are investigated: recording, real time streaming, diffusion systems. The recording technique will be treated to show the coherence in his artistic practice, the real time streaming will explain his innovative approach to sound technology, the diffusion systems will be described in relation to his technical choices and to his large scale works.