18. Antarctic Soundscapes and Musicology: the Not So Silent Continent

Antarctica is not as silent as it first appears. Musicologist and Antarctic studies scholar Dr. Carolyn Philpott explores how sound, silence, and music shape the ways people experience and imagine the continent. From songs performed during early polar expeditions and Vaughan Williams’s Antarctic film music to field recordings, iceberg cracks, wildlife, and modern soundscape compositions, the episode reveals Antarctica’s rich acoustic identity. Philpott also introduces ecomusicology and explains how Antarctic soundscapes, tourism, and sensory experience can build emotional connections with a place most people will never visit.

Episode Guest: Dr. Carolyn Philpott

Learn more about Dr. Philpott here

Browse Dr. Philpott’s Publications here

Connect with Dr. Philpott on LinkedIn

Listen to Vaughn Williams’ Scott of the Antarctic on Youtube

Listen to Penguin Ballet by Nigel Westlake on Spotify

Listen to Seals (Underwater) by Douglass Quinn on YouTube

Listen to Antarctic Sound Recordings by Phillip Samartzis on YouTube

Iceberg Crash by Almaz Khakimov

Episode Transcript and more information on the Pine Forest Media Website

Follow Pine Forest Media on Instagram @pineforestmedia