Another System, Another Sound
- Musica Practica/Elettronica Viva and One Art Community Center
- Department of Music, School of Arts & Sciences
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Community Partnerships Grant
One Art Community Center
Another System, Another Sound is a community-driven sound system building project by Musica Practica/Elettronica Viva at the University of Pennsylvania, organized by Eugene Lew, in partnership with One Art Community Center in West Philadelphia. Another System, Another Sound is inspired by grassroots traditions of 1960s sound system culture in Jamaica, and explores art, technology, and cultural heritage via a collaborative process that empowers participants. The project emphasizes the interdisciplinary underpinnings of the construction process to focus on creative expression, skill-building, and collective action to foster knowledge sharing, and expand access to specialized sound systems for community events. Participants will gain hands-on experience in audio engineering, electronics, woodworking, organizing, and event production. Central to this effort is Leon Phillpotts, founder of House of Roots, and a respected figure in the vast world of roots, dub, and sound system culture. Leon brings decades of expertise in designing and building custom sound systems rooted in Jamaican traditions by way of London. He will lead technical design, oversee construction, and mentor participants, offering a rare opportunity for community members to learn directly from an established builder, operator, DJ, and selector.
Beyond training and skill-sharing, Another System, Another Sound underlines the importance of community organizing and collective action. Open build days, listening sessions, and the participatory design process will gather a diverse group of stakeholders to co-create the system and shape its future use: ensuring a sense of collective ownership, fortifying cultural advocacy networks, and continuing the sound system’s familiar role as a potent tool for organizing, history sharing, and as a transducer of social justice.
https://www.oneart.love
https://www.houseofrootssoundsystem.com
https://web.sas.upenn.edu/electronicmusic/