This work invites us humans to pay tribute to the oldest sounding beings on earth. By what means could we embody the sonic and social character of these insects? I propose that by enacting an expressive insect swarm in a way that resonates with sounds of katydids, cicadas and grasshoppers, we remind ourselves to be attentive to them by listening with them as they emerge during their annual seasonal cycles. 

AudioSwarm: Insectus is an original audio composition based on field insect sounds that is to be performed collectively. AudioSwarm is offered in a participatory performative spatial diffusion format that combines social listening and movement to create a coherent sounding body by all who are present. Everyone is warmly invited to join the swarm.

John Grzinich is an audio-visual artist based in Estonia. His work integrates sound, moving images and site-specific installations to explore perceptions of sound and space, seeking resonances between people and places. Grzinich’s recent focus questions our anthropocentric views through performative and fixed media works by combining earthly agencies, expanded listening practices and participatory engagement.