En Masse 2026: Building a Sonic Archive w/ Olivia Melkonian

RSVP here: https://forms.gle/PF3BzZZS6pxNQQTg8

Workshop 12:00 - 13:00

Learn how to preserve family, personal and community history through audio recording and archiving. This workshop invites participants to rethink what an archive can be, from its purpose and contents to the mediums used to preserve it. Through open discussion, practical demonstrations and accessible audio tools, participants will explore sonic archiving as a way of capturing memory, history and lived experience, while developing the skills to create their own sonic archive. All experience levels are welcome.

You don’t need to bring anything, but you’re welcome to bring a recording you’d like to share. 

Olivia Melkonian is an audio producer, sound artist and archivist, and founder of Analog Armenia, an open-access archive preserving Armenian sonic heritage, including endangered dialects, folk songs, radio broadcasts and religious recordings.

Venue access:

The venue is fully wheelchair accessible, but unfortunately the toilets are not. Some users may find grab rails helpful – see here for more information.

Building a Sonic Archive w/ Olivia Melkonian (workshop) is part of En Masse’s 2026 Community and Arts Programme. This free-to-attend programme aims to enhance access to creative opportunities in Bristol, empower a diverse range of individuals to pursue creative careers, and nurture Bristol’s independent arts ecosystem by making it more connected and resilient. We actively encourage applications from those whose backgrounds have historically been underrepresented in the culture sector.

This event is supported by Arts Council England.

Disclaimer: Signing up gauges interest and does not guarantee entry. There are a limited number of places for this event. Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.