I want to address the discrepancy between these two interchangeable terms; sonic art and sound art. The reason I feel this is necessary is in recognition of the fact that at the University of Montana, we will use the term sonic art both for these art making practices, activities, and our sonic art concentration.
We consider the term sound art to be a specific practice that generally includes art which the primary medium is sound, or art that is conceptually about sound (regardless of medium). This includes the fuzzy line between experimental music and sound art, but excludes those activities that would be considered music when following a western culture definition that considers harmony based from the 12-note system and “standard” approaches of rhythm to be necessary qualities. (This means things such as Classical Music will be excluded, but, activities such as experimental music or some forms of popular music may be included…)
We will consider sonic art to encompass a much broader area of possible activities dealing with the sonic. This will include the obvious and overlaps with our above definition of sound art;
In addition, we consider sonic art to also include;
Generally, we consider sonic art a more encompassing term that accounts for the various activities, directions, and interests of both our students and faculty. We find it important to allow for those associated with the Sonic Arts program at the University of Montana to have the opportunity to explore directions and take ownership of their education that can incorporate the above areas, topics, or expressions. Likewise, we will not force you to label yourself as a sound artist, sonic artist, musician, artist, researcher, sound designer, etc. You are of course welcome to do so, but we want you to have the space to explore the sonic as it best supports and benefits your larger creative and artistic goals.