Three-part workshop series on audio storytelling
BRATTLEBORO- The Vermont Folklife Center has partnered with the Brattleboro Words Project to offer a three-part workshop series on audio storytelling.
Vermont Folklife associate director and archivist Andy Kolovos and “Untapped” podcast producer Mary Wesley will demystify the tools and methods necessary to produce a high quality audio storytelling project from start to finish.
“Introduction to Audio Storytelling: The Basics” will be offered on Saturday, October 26, from 1 to 5 pm at Brooks Memorial Library. Students will explore the tools, technologies, and methods of collecting audio field recordings and interviews—including some hands-on practice with audio gear and microphones. The workshop concludes with an overview of the audio editing process and the software tools available for the job. This workshop is free to the general public but registration is required by emailing BrattleboroWords@gmail.com.
The second workshop, “Interviewing & Recording,” will be held on Saturday, November 2, from 10 am to 3 pm at 118 Elliot. Using audio recording gear provided by Vermont Folklife, attendees will work in teams to conduct practice interviews—gaining firsthand experience with the process, and familiarizing themselves with the complex challenges of balancing interpersonal engagement with interviewees while simultaneously using audio recording technology to document the interaction. In addition, students will discuss the broad field of audio recording options including stand-alone audio recorders, USB computer interfaces, and Android and iOS recording apps. Tuition for this workshop is $95, $55 for students.
“Editing Basics,” will be held on Saturday, November 16, from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm at 118 Elliot. Participants will learn to trim, cut, assemble, and mix a simple audio piece using free, web-based editing software (Soundtrap). Interview samples and hands-on support will be provided. There will also be discussion of the particularities of the medium and what goes into creating a good audio story. Participants will have time to consult about their own projects (potential or in progress) and listen to some inspiring examples. Tuition for this workshop is $95, $55 for students.
Register by calling (802) 388-4964 or visiting https://www.vermontfolklifecenter.org/workshops.
The Brattleboro Words Project will underwrite the participation of teachers and community research leaders currently working on audio for the Brattleboro Words Trail; write to BrattleboroWords@gmail.com to apply.
