Imagine a world where music is not just heard, but felt, experienced, and created by the collective energy of participants. Enter the Tangible Orchestra, a captivating project by Picarøøson, an artistic collaboration between Rebecca Gischel and Sebastian Walter, that seamlessly blends electronic and classical music in a three-dimensional space.
Uniting the Senses: Music and Interaction
The Tangible Orchestra is a unique installation comprising seven cylinders, each playing a distinct instrument when people are detected by sensors. As participants approach the cylinders, they become musicians, forming an ensemble or orchestra, with the range, contribution, and volume of music varying based on proximity and the number of participants. The experience is unique each time, orchestrated by individual participants and the ensemble.
Technology and Art: A Harmonious Fusion
The Tangible Orchestra is a marvel of technological innovation and artistic expression. 112 ultrasonic sensors controlled by iRobota Mega enable human interaction within the orchestra, providing a 360-degree field of view. Processing language coordinates microprocessors, sensors, and data to generate output. Instruments are played through speakers in the cylinder bases, with multiple sound outputs using external sound cards and the minim library. Audible beats are analyzed to create an equalizer-like light beam transferred to LEDs via transformers.
A Symphony of Participation
The Tangible Orchestra debuted at Royal Mile, Edinburgh, in May 2014, and has since captivated audiences worldwide. The project has been featured in numerous exhibitions and festivals, garnering critical acclaim for its innovative approach to music and audience engagement. The orchestra continues to evolve, with future events announced on their website, offering music enthusiasts and art lovers alike the opportunity to experience this extraordinary fusion of technology, art, and human interaction.
Bonus: The Tangible Orchestra is a testament to the power of collaboration and the transformative potential of art. By blurring the lines between audience and performer, the project invites participants to become active creators of music, fostering a sense of community and shared experience. The orchestra’s unique design and interactive nature make it an immersive and memorable experience that leaves a lasting impression on all who encounter it.
As the Tangible Orchestra continues to tour and captivate audiences, it serves as a reminder that music is not just a passive experience, but a dynamic and participatory art form that can bring people together in unexpected and inspiring ways.
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