Exploring Birżebbuġa through soundscapes

Abstract

This research investigates the residents’ perceptions of soundscapes in Birżebbuġa, a Maltese town marked by diverse acoustic environments. Noise pollution, particularly from the Malta Freeport terminals, is a frequent concern among locals. Using Robert Murray Schafer's concept of soundscapes, this study aims to explore how these soundscapes influence the residents' sense of place. Sounds were recorded in 12 distinct areas of Birżebbuġa, followed by a focus group discussion with eight residents to capture their reactions. The audio elicitation method revealed various emotional responses including nostalgia, frustration, and serenity. Key findings indicate that residential soundscapes, such as church bells (a soundmark), foster a sense of community and belonging. Natural soundscapes like those of Tal-Mara Cliffs (a keynote sound) evoke tranquillity, despite concerns over environmental degradation. In contrast, industrial sounds from the Freeport (a signal sound) and overpassing aeroplanes are sources of annoyance, disrupting daily activities. The study highlights that while the soundscapes of the locality centre evoke positive emotions and nostalgia, natural soundscapes strengthen residents' connection to their locality. Industrial soundscapes, however, predominantly cause irritation. Despite these issues, residents express a strong sense of place and reluctance to move away, often citing their bond with the sea and community. Future research could explore the evolution of these soundscapes over time and compare Birżebbuġa's acoustic environment with other Maltese localities to better understand regional variations and resident perceptions.