Introduction

Renowned Vancouver-based composer Sylvi MacCormac has culminated her extensive career with the release of a groundbreaking compilation album titled *Wheels Soundscapes: Voices of People With Disabilities*. This remarkable 13-track collection showcases MacCormac's work spanning from 1998 to 2023, offering a rich tapestry of sounds and narratives highlighting the experiences of individuals with disabilities.

MacCormac's Musical Journey

MacCormac, a pivotal figure in the local music scene since the late 1990s, draws from various periods of her life and creativity in this album. Among its standout pieces is an excerpt from her latest project, *Brother Bear & Bent Boxes*, featuring collaborations with vocalist Russell Wallace. Also included are innovative works like the 2003 track "Spirit wheels: Railway Lines: Trains of Thought," which combines traditional folk elements with modern soundscapes.

Personal and Historical Inspiration

The inspiration behind this ambitious project is deeply personal and historical. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at the age of 21, MacCormac's journey into soundscape composition began during her studies at Simon Fraser University, where she learned under the esteemed Canadian electroacoustic music pioneer, Barry Truax. Influenced by the BBC Radio Ballads, which provided audio portraits of individuals with polio, MacCormac sought to create a platform for people with disabilities to express their voices authentically.

Recognition and Collaboration

In a significant honor, her work *QEKIYEKSUT* received the prestigious Canadian Electroacoustic Community's Jeff Chippewa Award, further acknowledging her commitment to Indigenous narratives. Collaborating with musicians from varied backgrounds, including those from the St’át’imc and Lil’wat Nations, MacCormac bridges diverse cultures in her compositions.

Inclusive Environment at VAMS

The album was expertly mastered at the Vancouver Adapted Music Society (VAMS), co-founded by MacCormac, where she has fostered an inclusive environment for artists with disabilities. This collaboration also features notable musicians such as Juno winner Jim Byrnes and hip-hop artist 77 Spokes.

Embracing Technology and Art

MacCormac's creativity often intertwines with her health journey; as her physical abilities have changed, she has embraced technology in music production, transitioning from traditional instruments to digital sound composition. In her own words, “As my ability to play instruments diminished, my fascination with technology grew, unveiling new dimensions within my music.”

Acting and Storytelling

In addition to her music, MacCormac's artistic endeavors include acting. She produced and starred in the documentary short *Patience & Absurdity* in 2012, which explores the impact of Alzheimer’s on a family, as well as roles in films and series like *Bella Ciao!* and CBS's *Charmed*. Such projects reflect her commitment to telling powerful stories that resonate with her experiences and those of others.

Conclusion

*Wheels Soundscapes* not only encapsulates MacCormac's artistic evolution but also serves as a powerful statement on the abilities and voices of people with disabilities. As she reflects on this monumental project, she intends for it to be a “retirement piece,” symbolizing the culmination of her 25 years of exploration and collaboration within the domains of soundscape and disability advocacy.

Availability

Fans and new listeners alike can access this innovative compilation through MacCormac’s website, marking a significant milestone in her career and for the community she inspires. **Don't miss out—this album is set to redefine the music landscape with its poignant storytelling and captivating soundscapes!**