SOUND WORKSHOP | UNSILENCING: Sound Composing with Everyday Tools

The Art Gallery of Mississauga presents a sound workshop presented in conjunction with our current exhibition, My Mother’s Tongue, inspired by Al Madat (2014) by exhibiting artist, James Webb.

“Al Madat, (2014) comprises a recording of a Sufi dhikr undertaken by patients at the Sultan Bahu Rehab Centre in Westridge, Mitchell’s Plain. Webb was invited by the centre to record this ceremony after the centre’s main mosque in Johannesburg contributed to Webb’s 2012 artwork, Prayer (Johannesburg). Dhikr (literally, “remembrance”) is a traditional Islamic recitation, where sacred names are chanted with special breathing techniques, often creating trance-like effects. This practice was brought to the Cape with the enslaved Malay peoples, and is now used by the rehabilitation centre as an augmentation to the curative process. “Al Madat,” the specific dhikr used for this installation, translates as “help,” and is here used to implore the Prophet for assistance.”

Join composer, producer, and audio engineer Beau Cassidy (he/they) for a hands-on, exploratory workshop designed to tune your ears, deepen your awareness, and empower your creativity using sound. This session invites participants to engage with their environments, their devices, and each other using accessible tools like phones, freeware, and digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as GarageBand and Ableton.

Through the practices of “Deep Listening”, field recording, and sound collaging, participants will learn how to record, edit, and transform the everyday sounds around them into meaningful, self-directed sonic works. Inspired by the teachings of Pauline Oliveros, this workshop will explore how listening can be an act of presence, connection, and creative expression.

No prior experience with sound editing or music software is necessary, just curiosity and a willingness to explore. Participants are welcome to bring their own equipment (e.g., laptop, headphones, interface), but devices and software will be available for participant use.

What to Expect:

• A welcoming space for listening, experimentation, and creativity
• A guided “Deep Listening” exercise to open your ears and focus attention
• An introduction to sound recording tools and techniques (EQ, audio channels, key commands)
• Time for field recording indoors
• Support with editing and shaping sounds into layered compositions
• Group sharing, reflection, and opportunities for 1:1 guidance

Whether you’re a musician, artist, writer, or someone new to sound design, this workshop offers a space to explore how sound can capture the present moment and connect us to our inner and outer worlds.

Please Bring (if you have them):

• Headphones (with audio jack)
• Phone or portable recorder
• Curiosity and a spirit for experimentation!

Facilitator: Beau Cassidy (he/they) is a composer, producer, and audio engineer working at the intersections of listening, storytelling, and sonic care.

This special event is generously funded by TD Bank Group, Rama Gaming House Mississauga and Charitable Gaming Community Good.

Registration is required. All are welcome to join!