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STREET MUSIC IN THE FAUBOURG SAINT-ANTOINE
by Contributing Editor Des Coulam. Recording the street sounds of Paris attempting to capture that gratuitous, never-ending show for which no ticket is needed.
WALKING ALONG THE RUE du Faubourg Saint-Antoine from Bastille towards L'hôpital Saint-Antoine, past the clutch of wonderful half-hidden passageways, it’s easy to slip back in time. Since the 13th century the Faubourg Saint-Antoine has been full of artisans plying their trade. An exemption from the Medieval guild membership and the associated fees and taxes attracted carpenters, cabinetmakers, blacksmiths, ironworkers and a variety of other craftsmen to the area. Even today, if it’s furniture you want, the Faubourg Saint-Antoine is the place to be.
Walking in the Faubourg Saint-Antoine recently I found other artisans also plying their trade. On the rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine, just beyond the Square Trousseau, I came upon these street musicians thoroughly enjoying themselves.
As someone who is in love with sound, I couldn’t help imagining the cacophony of 13th century carpenters, cabinetmakers, blacksmiths and ironworkers nearby.
The sounds of the 13th century remain firmly fixed in my imagination but I can share the sound of today’s artisans with you just as they shared them with me … although I can’t help wondering what our 13th century friends would make of it.
Listen to the street musicians on the Rue du Faubourg St Antoine
Des Coulam has a passion for recording and preserving our sonic environment. He writes and records the Soundlandscapes blog at www.soundlandscapes.wordpress.com
