A few weeks ago, I wrote an article for NPR Music based on an interview from WNYC’s Soundcheck with David Byrne. Byrne’s latest project, called Playing the Building, transforms an antique pump organ and the old Battery Maritime Building in New York into an actual musical instrument.
The keyboard triggers mechanical devices that rattle, pound, clank, vibrate various motors, rafters and pipes and allows the public to literally play the building. Not only are the sounds stunning, but the building space itself is also visually amazing.
I’m so fascinated by this project since it finds music in unexpected places, finds beauty in such a great architectural and artistic space and because it’s very nature lets anyone — not just learned musicians — play and experiment with the sounds. I think I might have to take a weekend jaunt up to NYC to experience it for myself.
Go to NPR Music to read the article, listen to the piece and see a photo gallery I curated.
New York Times also wrote a good article about it here and have a little video as well.
Pitchfork also went down to the installation and shot this great short video feature below.