Field Notes

Every recording begins with a journey, a meeting or a conversation.

Field Notes offers a glimpse behind the scenes of Wandering Songs. Here we share stories and pictures from the field, reflections on our travels, encounters with musicians, and insights into the contexts in which songs are created and shared.

Our recordings do not emerge in isolation. They are shaped by the people we meet, the places we visit and the stories we are invited to hear. Through these field notes, we hope to share something of that experience and provide a deeper understanding of the music featured in our collection.

Suriname, 2026

From February until May 2026, we travelled to Suriname together with our three children in search of new recordings for Wandering Songs. What followed was a journey filled with music, encounters and unforgettable experiences.

Over the course of several months, we visited many remarkable places and met inspiring musicians, singers and communities. We were welcomed by the powerful rhythms and dance of Sambura Woyupore, moved by the beautiful Sokopsalms of NAKS Ala Firi, and touched by the rhythmic clapping and singing of the women of Moksi Alesi along the river in the heart of the rainforest. These are only a few of the many musicians and communities who generously shared their music and stories with us.

Travelling and recording together with our young children added a special dimension to this journey. The conversations, exchanges and lessons we shared along the way were just as valuable as the recordings themselves. Together, we met remarkable people, listened to beautiful stories and learned about different ways of life, creating memories that will stay with us for years to come.

We have now returned to the Netherlands and are currently processing and editing the recordings collected during our stay. Many of them are already available on the website, with more to follow in the coming months.

We look back on this period with great gratitude and look forward to returning to Suriname in the future, where undoubtedly many more stories are waiting to be heard and shared through music.