24.6. »Singing Off the Grid« Kathy Kennedy @ Sonic Talk
»Singing Off the Grid« is a practice that connects voice, environment, and technology in a way that reclaims public and natural spaces for artistic and communal expression. Kathy Kennedy refers with »Singing Off the Grid« to different aspects.
To decentralized sound performances: Moving away from traditional concert halls, and performing in open, outdoor or unconventional spaces that have a more open power structure.
- To environmental and social engagement: Listening deeply to the environment and integrating it into the act of singing, hence an act of eco-acoustic awareness. She also links it to feminist perspectives regarding the re-appropriation of space and voice.
- To wireless and network technology: Kennedy incorporates low watt FM transmission and other portable audio technology to create immersive and collective sonic experiences without relying on central and powerful infrastructures.
- To community and collaboration: Her performances often involve multiple participants and foster a sense of shared presence and vocal empowerment, especially among women and marginalized voices.
»Singing Off the Grid« is both a literal and metaphorical concept in Kennedy’s work. In the Sonic Talk, Kennedy will present her work and practices around »Singing Off the Grid«.
Before the talk in the evening there will be a public radio performance HMMM at Departure Marienstraße 5, Entrance from 3.30 to 4 p.m. Frequency: 106.6 MHz Everyone is invited to join and bring their own radio.
Kathy Kennedy – Singing off the Grid
Radioperformance
Time:
24 June 2025, 3.30 p.m.
Location:
Departure Marienstraße 5 Entrance
Presentation:
Tuesday, 24 June 2025, 7pm
Location:
Glas Cube of Limona
Steubenstraße 8
99423 Weimar
KATHY KENNEDY is a sound artist with formal training in visual art as well as classical singing. Her art practice generally involves the voice and issues of interface with technology, often using telephony or radio transmission. Her work engages with public space and physical space through voice. Her large-scale sonic installation/performances for many singers and radio, called “sonic choreographies,” as well as the HMMM series have been performed internationally. Ms. Kennedy currently teaches music at Concordia University in Montreal.