Dispatches

DISPATCHES FROM the CHARCOAL FOREST

an expanded song cycle for 6 voices and soundscape

Merlin’s newest project is a 40-minute nonlinear sound art contemplation of fire, emergency and aftermath. A quadraphonic soundtrack incorporates recorded stories and found sound, and provides the baseline for a live performance during which six singers surround and move among the audience.

The building blocks of this work include audio interviews collected from those who have lost loved ones to fire, firefighters, clean-up crews and ecologists, as well as clips sourced from 911 dispatch calls and evangelical fire-and-brimstone preaching. 

Currently in development, Merlin is working with musical director Kelly Atkins of the Kitka Women’s Vocal Ensemble and six singers. 

DISPATCHES FROM the CHARCOAL FOREST will be presented at the Paul Dresher studio in Oakland and the Milk Bar in Richmond, CA in May of 2026.

Funding is still needed for this work. Stay tuned for an opportunity to contribute.