The Longplayer Conversation: David Attenborough and Chris Watson
A LIVE SCREENING FROM THE BRITISH LIBRARY
An evening of extraordinary sounds and discussion
The 2017 Longplayer Conversation brings together long time collaborators, sound recordist Chris Watson and naturalist and broadcaster Sir David Attenborough. Join us for what promises to be a fascinating conversation informed by their shared interests and experiences as sound recordists in the natural world.
Chris Watson began his career in sound in the late 1970s as a musician and since the ‘90s has been one of the foremost sound recordists of wildlife and natural phenomena. A collaborator on natural history broadcasts with Sir David for over two decades, Chris continues to travel the world as a freelance recordist whilst also producing albums.
David Attenborough’s first work in natural history broadcasting drew him into the world of sound recording and pioneering work with the earliest portable tape recorders on location. David recorded the wildlife and local music for his documentaries, recordings which are now stored for posterity in the British Library Sound Archive. Today, Sir David is one of the world’s most recognised advocates for the protection of our environments now and for the future.
Longplayer was composed by Jem Finer, and originally commissioned by Artangel. Now in the care of the Longplayer Trust, it can be heard in the lighthouse at Trinity Buoy Wharf, London, as well as other listening posts around the world, globally via a live internet stream, through an iOS app and occasional live performances. The annual Longplayer Conversations are a way of celebrating the vision behind Longplayer’s long term aspirations, by inviting friends to bring their personal experiences and expertise to bear on the theme of long time.
Part of a Season of Sound, celebrating the Library’s sound archive. Audio installation supplied by Bowers & Wilkins.
This is a free event but booking is advised.
