Watch Touch the Sound

"Touch the Sound" is a mesmerizing 2004 documentary film directed by acclaimed German filmmaker Thomas Riedelsheimer. The film centers around the experiences of Evelyn Glennie, a renowned, Grammy-winning percussionist who has been deaf since the age of 12. The documentary is a visual and sonic exploration of the art of sound, as seen and heard through the perspective of a deaf musician. It is an astonishing and immersive experience that invites the audience to reconsider their relationship with sound and the ways in which we interact with it.

The film is structured around a number of interweaving narratives that take place in different locations around the world. We see Glennie performing in a variety of settings, from concert halls to disused factories, as well as taking part in experimental and improvisational collaborations with other musicians and dancers.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is the way in which it captures the physicality of sound. Through close-up shots of Glennie's hands, we see how she uses her sense of touch to "hear" the vibrations of the instruments she is playing. We witness her ability to feel the subtle nuances and textures of sound, and how she uses this sensitivity to create complex and intricate rhythms.

The film also delves into the rich history and cultural significance of different types of percussion, from the traditional Taiko drums of Japan to the rhythms of West Africa. We see Glennie immersing herself in these different musical traditions, learning from local musicians and creating new sounds through experimental collaborations.

Throughout the documentary, we are also introduced to other musicians and artists who share Glennie's passion for pushing the boundaries of what is possible with sound. We meet Fred Frith, a British avant-garde guitarist who uses found objects and unconventional techniques to create new forms of music. We see him collaborating with Glennie to create a stunning and otherworldly duet that combines percussion and guitar.

Another standout performer featured in the film is Roxane Butterfly, a French-born tap dancer who uses her feet as percussion instruments. We see her dancing in abandoned buildings and on the streets of New York, creating rhythmic soundscapes that blend elements of jazz, hip-hop and traditional tap.

Through these diverse and fascinating collaborations, "Touch the Sound" shows how sound can transcend language, culture, and even physical senses. It is a captivating and moving celebration of the power of sound to connect us with each other and with the world around us.

Overall, "Touch the Sound" is a beautifully shot and edited documentary that offers a unique and thought-provoking perspective on the art of sound. Whether you are a musician, a lover of music or simply someone who enjoys exploring new ways of experiencing the world, this is a film that is sure to inspire and delight.