A Sonic Journey through the Antonine Roman Wall: Crafting History with Black GoblinCase

Background on the Project:

In a collaborative endeavour involving Black Goblin, Historic Environment Scotland, and the Bearsden Baptist Church, we embarked on an extraordinary journey. Nestled amidst the ancient sites of the Antonine Roman Wall, this project was all about reviving history. Our mission was to create a sensory experience that would transport attendees back in time and immerse them in the ambiance of a Roman fort.

Our Collaboration with the Past:

Our creative journey began with a close partnership with the site’s head archaeologist. Together, we developed scripts for three pivotal reenactments: everyday life, soldiers’ life, and the bustling markets and exchange of goods. These scripts were the foundation of the project, shaping the soundscapes that would breathe life into history.

Community Engagement and Foley Magic:

One of the project’s most beautiful aspects was our commitment to community involvement. Members of the local community and the town of Bearsden played a pivotal role in making history come alive. Armed with scripts, they became actors, reenacting conversations, and crafting foley recordings. Donning replicas of Roman clothing and wielding ancient tools, they meticulously recreated the sounds and scenes of the past, guided by the invaluable advice of the archaeologist.

The Crafted Soundscapes:

The culmination of our collective efforts was the creation of three distinct, layered soundscapes. Each one was a rich tapestry woven with historical accuracy and artistic creativity. To bring these soundscapes to life, we took a unique approach. We, crafted sound objects from scratch and converted them into libraries, which served as a flexible repository for creating live soundscapes. These soundscapes were designed to resonate with one of the three historically significant themes.

MAX MSP: The Backbone of Authenticity:

Our playback system was at the core of delivering an authentic experience. Powered by MAX MSP, it drew from the meticulously created libraries to generate soundscapes that breathed life into history. This approach ensured that every visit to the installation offered a unique experience, enticing history enthusiasts to return time and again.

Our Role in the Technical Harmony:

Beyond our creative contributions, we collaborated with in-house technicians to make informed hardware purchases and offer cost-effective solutions for maintaining the system. The result was a seamless and permanent installation, where history and technology intertwined harmoniously.

In Conclusion: Walking through Time:

The sound installation project, a collaborative effort between Historic Environment Scotland and Black Goblin, is a testament to the power of sound and community. It’s more than just an installation; it’s a bridge to the past. As attendees stroll through the historic sites, they encounter not just ruins, but the vibrant echoes of life from a bygone era. Through the fusion of history, community, and technology, this project delivers an experience that leaves an indelible mark on those who embark on this sonic journey.