Voices of the Wild

A pioneer in the field of soundscape ecology explores the ways in which the voice of the natural world informs many subjects

Since 1968, Bernie Krause has traveled the world recording the sounds of remote landscapes, endangered habitats, and rare animal species. Through his organization, Wild Sanctuary, he has collected the soundscapes of more than 2,000 different habitat types, marine and terrestrial. With powerful illustrations and compelling stories, Krause provides a manifesto for the appreciation and protection of natural soundscapes. In his previous book, The Great Animal Orchestra, Krause drew readers' attention to what Jane Goodall described as “the harmonies of nature . . . [that are being] one by one by one, snuffed out by human actions.” He now explains that the secrets hidden in the natural world's shrinking sonic environment must be preserved, not only for our scientific understanding, but for our cultural heritage and humanity's physical and spiritual welfare.

Krause's narrative—supplemented by exclusive access to field recordings from the wild—draws on a compelling range of personal anecdotes, histories, and examples to document his early exploration of this field and to lay the groundwork for future generations.

Bernie Krause is a soundscape ecologist, musician, and writer. He and the English composer Richard Blackford collaborated on "The Great Animal Orchestra: Symphony for Orchestra and Wild Soundscapes," which premiered in the UK in 2014 with the BBC National Orchestra of Wales. He lives in Glen Ellen, CA.