
Why Birds Sing
Documentary which explores the intriguing, charming, complex and often conflicting theories on why birds sing like they do and why humans are so attracted to the sound.
Inspired by musician and eco-philosopher David Rothenberg's book of the same title, this documentary explores the intriguing, charming, complex and often conflicting theories on why birds sing like they do and why humans are so attracted to the sound.
The film features contributions from musicians including Laurie Anderson, Jarvis Cocker and Beth Orton; enlightening and often startling analysis from some of the world's most eminent birdsong scientists; a literary guide to birdsong in poetry; a bizarre birdsong-themed art 'happening'; the creation of a new musical composition from the Afro-Celt Sound System, entirely made up of manipulated birdsongs; and a strange musical duet at New York's Bronx Aviary, featuring humans and birds.
Filmed in the forests, aviaries, studios and laboratories of England, Germany and the USA, this is a colourful, entertaining, informative and occasionally weird journey through the songs of nature that have enchanted and perplexed humans for thousands of years.
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Credits
Role | Contributor |
---|---|
Participant | Jarvis Cocker |
Participant | Laurie Anderson |
Participant | Beth Orton |
Executive Producer | Sara Ramsden |
Director | Archie Powell |
Broadcasts
- Wed 20 Jun 2007 21:00
- Thu 21 Jun 2007 00:20
- Thu 21 Jun 2007 02:40
- Thu 21 Jun 2007 23:20
- Tue 3 Jul 2007 19:40
- Wed 4 Jul 2007 02:05
- Mon 1 Nov 2010 22:50