Listening with Point Reyes

Join sound recordists Ernst Karel and Cheryl E. Leonard for a listening session in which we explore a variety of habitats in Point Reyes National Seashore through stereo and quadraphonic audio recordings. We will "listen with" recordings of sonic environments from different seasons, times of day or night, and a range of sites within the park. Recordings will feature birds, mammals, insects, plants, and underwater species recorded using hydrophones, as well as the voices of wind and water.

These recordings have been gathered over the last four years to gradually build a sound map of the park in collaboration with the Point Reyes National Seashore Association. Listening with our park adds a new dimension to our understanding of this special place, sharing sonic wonders and valuable information about the health of its ecosystems.

Ernst Karel works along the area of reality-based audio, including location recording, experimental nonfiction sound works for multichannel installation and performance, composed and improvised electroacoustic music, image-sound collaboration, and postproduction sound for nonfiction film. He hosts Local Locations on KWMR Community Radio, is a certified California Naturalist, and lives in West Marin.

Cheryl E. Leonard is a composer, performer, field recordist, and instrument builder. Her works investigate natural sites and ecosystems, and human relationships with them. She uses microphones and amplification to explore sonic intricacies, highlighting unique voices and soundscapes while addressing environmental issues. Her projects often feature sculptural natural-object musical instruments and field recordings from remote locales.

Details

-Meet at the Bear Valley Picnic Area, across from the Bear Valley Visitor Center

-Together we will walk to an indoor venue for this listening session

-Note that accessing the venue will require a short uphill walk, and will take place in a building accessible by stairs only

- Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to check in

- Refunds available for all classes 7 days in advance of the start date, after 7 days and before 2 days, participants can credit their class for a future date. All requests less than 48 hours in advance will be declined.

- Please follow the parking instructions for the facility used that day

- Please provide an email you check regularly for updates and reminders about your class

- Registration is required online prior to the event in order to maintain class sizes

- Sales end 48 hours before the start date.

- Waitlists are available when the class sells out

Ticket Pricing

A range of pricing options are available to meet your needs. We welcome your participation and appreciate your support at any level.

What to Bring

Warm Variable Weather Clothing

Comfortable shoes for walking from the parking are to the venue

Water Bottle

Notebook and Pen/Field Journal

Eventbrite Confirmation Email

Camera (Optional)

About the PRNSA Field Institute

The PRNSA Field Institute offers hands-on environmental education classes throughout the year that foster enjoyment of Point Reyes National Seashore. Our classes are led by expert instructors, who take you out of your everyday life and into the natural world. We host a variety of classes about the arts and sciences and have something for everyone. You can reach the Field Institute at (415) 663-1200 x304 or by email at fieldinstitute@ptreyes.org.

Interested in becoming a member of PRNSA? Click Here!

Interested in becoming a PRNSA Field Institute volunteer facilitator, or are you an outdoor educator or artist who would like to teach a PRNSA Field Institute class? Send an Email!

For any questions, please email us at fieldinstitute@ptreyes.org.

Health Guidelines

Masks are welcome at your discretion as we all work together to remain healthy and safe.