Taking the stage
The figure above shows how the seats and 'hotspots'
are laid out as an authentic orchestra. This inclusive
semi-circular shape around the conductors' podium can
be easily grasped to communicate the nature of the installation to the public coming down the Jubilee bridge.


Playing instruments
– A learning experience...
All the instruments are represented on each seat
to recreate the orchestra's distribution scheme.
This enables people to learn how the ensemble works
as they walk through the installation.

– Becoming the orchestra...
When someone sits down, the instrument that belongs
there plays its part straight from the seat, in a direction
that reflects the real experience of playing the instrument.
In most cases, this means the sound comes out from
the front. In the french horns' case though, it comes out
on the right when played by a musician, so these seats have their speaker positioned accordingly.
All the instruments play in synchronicity, allowing many people together to reveal a coherent part of the piece,
and feel empowered as a whole.


Exchange via Bluetooth
We provided an infrastructure for mobile phones' Bluetooth device to let players freely send and receive sounds
related to the installation, and feel they are truly part
of the orchestra.

Since not everyone is familiar with the Bluetooth device
on their phones, an important goal of the installation was
to provide the right setting for people to learn how to set
it up and benefit from it. However, raising awareness
to bluetooth means reading instructions that vary
from a mobile phone to another. The seats were
a solution — they made it comfortable for people to be
in a receptive mood. Then, we provided an easy set
of instructions for them to connect andexchange.

A different experience every time
Since the audience is mainly composed of regular
passers-by, it is important for the experience to take new forms in order to sustain their interest. With everyone
trying out seats and hot spots to their liking, the musical score is constantly being revealed in different ways.
Furthermore, the ability to easily upload new scores
on the system allows the diversity of the Philharmonia repertoire to be celebrated through the installation.
From one week to the next, the featured musical
pieces change — from commissioned pieces to well-known orchestral repertoire. Therefore, a variety of musical experiences are offered to visitors and commuters for
them to rediscover the installation every time they come.


PLAY on and on...
This system also has the potential for adaptation to an infinite variety of musical styles, group sizes and layouts, and different locations — allowing the Sound Exchange project to evolve into the future.


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