Profiled Artist: Anya Ustaszewski
Hi, I'm Anya and I'm a Composer/Sonic Artist and Musician. I compose modernist classical music and experimental electro acoustic music. I have a strong interest in the ideas of sound sculpture and exploring the spatial element of sound. I currently work as a Composer, Musician and Workshop Facilitator. I also deliver autism and disability awareness training.
My previous work has included: Associate Musician on Drake Music’s Connecting Across Difference project, Disability Access Officer at an internationally respected art gallery; and I've also performed my music at various clubs and premiered my multichannel piece Metalllicum at the 2009 Decibel performing arts showcase. I am drawn to immersive sound experiences and the way in which sound can move around and envelop the listener.
I’m autistic and proud of it, and am an active member of the autistic pride movement. I have spoken at a variety of events and had articles published on the subject. As part of my autism, I experience hyperacusis. This means that I have hypersensitive hearing and cannot ‘block out’ or ignore sounds in the way that non-autistic people can. I have an inability to cut out particular sounds and a lower hearing threshold, which makes me particularly sensitive to auditory stimuli, to the extent that it can cause me severe and excruciating pain. Hyperacusis can have a direct effect on my ability to communicate and also affects my balance.
On the positive side, it means that I notice sounds that others may not hear at all. I hear detail and beauty in sound; I observe qualities that others may completely miss. To me the smallest and seemingly most insignificant of sounds can present limitless creative and expressive possibilities.
Listen to an excerpt from Metallicum, made entirely from samples of a small ornamental bell:
Listen to an excerpt from The Dancing Woodlouse and the Persistent Dripping Tap, for oboe, bassoon and 2 marimbas:
Listen to an excerpt from Used 2 B a Tree, made entirely from samples of pieces of paper being torn, flicked and rustled:
More information at: www.anyasmusic.co.uk