A Song Inspired by the Noises From Outside, Inside and unknown Spaces in Elmo’s House

Entry by Kuh Del Rosario
27 June 2017

It's been four months since I left Vancouver, BC to come to Batan, Aklan. Although I have visited this place a handful of times before, the move could not prepare me for such a life change.

The first two months were emotionally harrowing but eventually, I began to settle. Routines started to develop and I find myself moving through the house with increasing confidence.  

Sara Reedman gave me words of encouragement for writing my own songs. It amazed me how songwriting comes to her with such ease. She has an intrinsinc sense of storytelling that is earnest. Sara reminded me that the element of play is important during the process, along with trusting ones instincts. 

This song started off as a list of sounds audible from the house. They were sounds from outside, inside and at times unknown. I have come to understand these sounds as important textures and layers contributing to the uniqueness of this place. 

A song emerged. With Ryan Romero's help, the lyrics were refined and the melody was developed. We sat in the living room and recorded ourselves while a thunderous storm rolled outside and the electricity was temporarily out.