2025
"Of Matters And Frequencies – Parte 2" continues the project launched in October 2024 at AVISTAVULCÃO by artists Melina Berta (sculptor) and Alessandro Pedretti (sound designer), who form the duo MOLOM. This collaboration resulted in the sound performance *Silêncio Vulcânico* (*Volcanic Silence*), a sensitive exploration of the soundscapes and invisible vibrations of Faial.
In this second chapter of the investigation, the sound research delves deeper into the complex relationships between sound, nature, and the local community, now with the participation of musician Franco Lapache, whose presence brings a new dimension to the project. With his own artistic language, Lapache integrates into the creative process with the aim of expanding the listening and interpretation of the territory.
During his artist residency on the island, the project evolves into a new sound performance that aims to combine the natural sounds of Faial’s landscapes—such as the wind, the sea, the rocks, and the echoes of the volcano—with elements of social life and the memories of the inhabitants. By focusing on insularity as a central theme, the proposal seeks to reflect on how geographical isolation shapes culture, identity, and ways of relating to the world.
More than just an observer, Franco Lapache actively engages the community, inviting residents to share stories, sounds, and experiences. This collaboration makes the project not only an artistic work but also a shared creation, where Faial becomes a subject and not merely a backdrop.
FRANCO LAPACHE is an Italian musician and sound artist based in Berlin. Trained in jazz guitar, and having honed his skills through years of performing and teaching, he has embarked on a personal journey of sonic and artistic exploration. At the heart of his work lies a deep curiosity about the multifaceted potential of sound—its applications, expressive forms, and the ways in which media shape the creative process. His research delves into themes such as the use of scientific data as a source of inspiration, the repurposing of obsolete media, and the creation of connections between sound and disciplines such as politics, history, cultural heritage, and journalism. Since 2024, he has been pursuing a master’s degree in Sound Studies and Sonic Arts at the Universität der Künste in Berlin.
Final outcome of the creative residency and recording of Franco Lapache’s sound performance CIRCUM-SONORO at Vigia da Baleia in Cabeço do Canto.
The artist’s work resulted in a collage of sounds that reflect the island’s natural environment, spontaneous encounters, heartfelt musical moments, and compositional ideas inspired by the elements around him.
Each performance uses a unique, fully battery-powered setup to create an immersive and engaging sound experience.
The audience was invited to walk to the Cabeço do Canto Whale Watchtower in Capelo, a unique space that was once used for observing whales offshore. In this singular setting, the artist will present a sound and musical piece composed based on his experiences during his stay, gathering sounds from nature, the urban environment, the people he met, and the music he heard and composed. The piece will offer a deep exploration of the soundscape of this territory, immersing the audience in its unique atmosphere.
Inside the lookout, two benches are available to accommodate two spectators at a time, offering an intimate experience of the performance in front of the panoramic window. Each presentation was ephemeral and unique, lasting approximately 10 minutes, allowing the audience a personal and unrepeatable experience of this immersive work.
Franco performed 14 unique acts that day. As we left, the sun was setting behind the Capelinhos lighthouse.
