Dawn Chorus

In spring, nature awakens from its winter slumber, and the sounds of nature are particularly vivid: from the pecking of woodpeckers and the croaking of frogs to the chirping of skylarks and the bellowing of moose. This environmental art project offers a unique opportunity to experience and get to know both the local as well as foreign landscapes and habitats through sound because during 24 hours, the dawn-greeting sounds captured from Estonian lakeshores and Brazilian rainforests will reach every corner of the world.

The collaboration project between Mooste Guest Studio (MOKS) and UK creative partner Soundcamp turns the spotlight on authentic and splendid Estonian nature.

On May 1-3, early-morning listening walks will take place in Mooste. On May 4-5, a sound camp will be held where sound artists and students interested in nature sounds will share their knowledge (both technical and ornithological) with each other and record nature sounds. The event culminates on May 4th with the Dawn Chorus: an activity during which nature sounds recorded at sunrise are broadcast worldwide for 24 hours. The enchanting sounds of Põlvamaa nature will reach listeners via a special web channel and two radio stations in the USA and the UK. During the broadcast, Soundcamp, MOKS’ partner and the main driving force behind the Dawn Chorus project, will also be physically present in Mooste. Thus, for one day, Mooste will become the global centre for broadcasting and mixing sounds of nature.

In the year of the European Capital of Culture, the Dawn Chorus also celebrates its 10th anniversary. Soundcamp wishes to mark this significant event in Estonia, as they believe the most fascinating and diverse nature sounds have come from here. Since 2015, John Grzinich (MOKS), Veljo Runnel, Taavi Suisalu, and others from Estonia have contributed to the Dawn Chorus project.

The project’s goal is to promote environmental awareness and a deeper understanding of nature through the skill of listening, and collaboration that strengthens relationships between different regions of the European Capital of Culture as well as brings together local and international nature-loving sound artists in Mooste. Through the Dawn Chorus, a piece of Estonian nature will reach listeners worldwide.