Rosie Brownhill talks about her forthcoming sound work commissioned by Erbe.

The response to Erbe’s inaugural commission before Christmas was overwhelming, with so many talented artists applying. Staffordshire based musician was selected to make a new soundscape in response to the Wyre Forest which will feature as part of my forthcoming podcast and downloadable to listen to in full. I asked Rosie to outline what appealed to hear about the commission. Here’s what she had to say…

I was drawn to Erbe’s sound commission due to its rural roots, and aspects of exploring the history of the Wyre Forest. The countryside has always been a big source of inspiration to my music, my lifestyle and my motivation on a daily basis. This, together with my interest in folk and traditional music and social history, made the sound commission stand out to me.

The project allows me to explore social history from past to present within the Wyre Forest. What interests me particularly about the Wyre Forest is its vast and varied uses throughout the ages. The forest has continued to grow and provide resources throughout our evolution, including the demands of the industrial revolution. It provided shelter for early settlers, trees for timber, materials for industry, transported by its railway and continues to provide in so many ways, as it will for years to come. For me to create a sound work which responds to this, taking in how the forest functions today really connects with my interests.

My idea was to focus on the recurring theme of growth and retire. It is clear that throughout history, the Wyre forest has been constantly evolving in-line with our social history; bursting with all forms of life, offering many resources and growing with society every day. Throughout the current Coronavirus pandemic the Wyre forest and places alike continue to provide an integral function in our society. Green spaces have provided a sense of freedom in a time of such restriction, and many more people have been exploring these spaces anew.

I believe the creative potential of the rural West Midlands is matched by many green spaces being a source of inspiration for creativity. While walking I’ve observed the constantly changing landscape with always something new to see and be inspired by. It gives me the guidance I personally need to create my music or just to feel more energised and grounded. During the Coronavirus pandemic many more people have used our green spaces and at a time of such unease, with many feeling loneliness, or isolate within the same four walls, walking outside, being surrounded by nature has been a constant source of hope and enduringly refreshing. For those who still feel uncomfortable going out, or who are shielding, I hope that this sound is a wonderful and accessible way to step outside from within their homes, bringing the calming effects of the Wyre Forest into their day. 

Rosie has very nearly completed the commission and I hope to be able to share it with you all in the coming weeks. For more information about Rosie work see here website here.