I propose to conduct an outreach project writing, recording, and performing musical compositions that provide an intimate, creative connection to the ecology of the natural reserves. I will bring my expertise both as an ecologist and musician to this project. My doctoral dissertation is on California forest ecology and climate change. Alongside my science career, I have honed my craft as a musician over the last decade through extensive training from professional musicians in classical and American folk traditions. A sample of my work can be found at creeksidemusic.bandcamp.com. I will gather material and compose the pieces through field trips to Hastings Natural History Reservation, Angelo Coast Range Reserve, and Sagehen Creek Field Station in summer and fall 2025. I will arrange and rehearse the songs during fall 2025 and spring 2026, with planned recording and performances in summer 2026. Field ecology is an opportunity to connect deeply with a particular place and ecosystem. This knowledge of the natural history of a place underlies the scientific work that follows. Creative work adds another dimension to the relationship — connecting to a place in a holistic way, both with a scientist’s eye and an artist’s eye. I seek to create place-based pieces that hold the specific, detailed ecology of the reserves along with my unique perspectives and artistic vision. By bridging human experience and ecosystems, I will invite listeners to explore fresh ways of relating to the environment. Through spanning forms of connection, from the practical and scientific to the creative and emotional, I seek to help people relate deeply to these ecosystems, sparking further engagement. This work will reach up to 100 students through performances on the UC Berkeley campus and many more through sharing the recordings across university networks.

Approved