A few days ago I started the first chapter in a year-long experiment to see if I could harness the cosmic influences surrounding the new and full moons and create a soundscape that would capture some of that dominant energy. First on the list was the New Moon in Virgo ~ Mutable Earth. The crest of the new moon was taking place at 5AM MST on Thursday so that meant that I had 13 hours prior to the crest to make this magic come together. Like any good researcher, I allowed myself the liberty to prep beforehand, but I wanted the core creation phase to happen within that window. The goal was not to necessarily create a mix just based on book knowledge, but to let myself genuinely feel the influence of that moon and be inspired in the moment to create. I had taken the day to clear myself – focus on my spiritual practice, take a long nature walk and have a big healthy meal. I felt I was ready.
Virgo is a zodiac archetype that I personally have a connection to as it’s my moon sign. I felt like I understood this elemental mode and hoped I could better connect to it on an auditory level. The opening meditations curated by Tanya Lee referenced the visual of root systems, stretching out beneath the soil searching for nutrients, strength and stability. These roots are adaptable and flexible but creating structure and strength for the plants and trees above. The new moon is also about planting a new seed and the waxing phase to follow is about allowing that seed to begin to grow and take shape. This conjured up a feeling of deep, undulating bass frequencies and textures for me. Fluctuating rhythms and patterns of sound. I let this feeling take me on a journey, guide my song choices and inevitably dictate the mix that transpired. By 3:30 AM I was done and completely exhausted. Having not even listened to the mix, I blindly uploaded it and passed out for a few hours of much needed sleep.
It’s been a few days now and I somehow hoped that a bit of time after the process would help me to properly articulate my journey but if I’m to be totally transparent, I’m still processing the experience and the toll it’s taken. I’m feeling exhausted and a bit disorientated from the birth of this creation. Now it’s time to nurture myself and prepare for this new moon seed to grow and take shape.
I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished and extremely excited to keep moving forward, to foster this experiment and see it manifest itself into something spectacular. I’m curious about how this new moon experience will differ from that of the energy of the full moon.
Next up – Full Moon in Aries. I’m not even sure what to say about this one except I’m scared!
Jessica Roh
It’s amazing to read your process. I was wondering about your physical and mental ability to sit and focus on transforming the effects of the new moon into your music was going to go for you. It’s like a type of meditation, I think. Getting lost in the moment of making art is one of the best feelings. We know that so much work goes into creating these mixes and we support you all the way! Thank you so much for sharing how you feel. This is an incredible project!!
zephrym
Thank you so much for your comment and your appreciation Jessica. It’s going to be a learning and growth process as the project evolves for sure. I’m excited to see how things transpire and what new practices / meditations / rituals come to light.