December 23rd, 2008

Minnesota Soundscapes

The State of Minnesota straddles the convergence of three major ecological zones in the heart of North America: prarie grasslands, eastern hardwood forests and northern conifer forests. Its abundant waters include more than 15,000 lakes, thousands of rivers and streams, the headwaters and upper flowage of the mighty Mississippi River, and a major stretch of the North Shore of Lake Superior.

Overlaid atop this complex geography are several thriving urban centers, vast agricultural and forested regions, a growing diversity of cultures and four distinct seasons. All these elements combine to create a rich palette of both natural and man-made soundscapes.

Building on more than 30 years of work in media production, broadcasting and music recording, audio producer Curt Olson has recently turned his attention toward a new challenge: capturing and sharing the rich sound textures of his native Minnesota.