Reimagining Concert Spaces: The Acoustic Landscape of Joanneum Quarter
Music and spaces have always shared a deep and inextricable relationship. The way sound interacts with space transforms the listening experience. By playing with it consciously we are creating an immersive experience that goes beyond traditional concert settings. This is the core idea behind the “Sounds of the Joanneum Quarters Graz” project—an innovative approach to ambient music and concert formats that redefines how audiences engage with sound.
The Vision: Transforming Public Spaces into Concert Venues
The project explores how the spatial dynamics of the Joanneum Quarter in Graz can shape a unique musical experience. Unlike conventional concert halls with fixed seating and predictable acoustics, this public space presents a lively environment where sound can evolve organically. The goal is to break down barriers associated with classical concert settings by offering an open, interactive listening experience that invites both intentional audiences and casual passersby.
Architectural Influence on Sound
A key element of this project is the relationship between sound and architecture. The Joanneum Quarter is defined by its distinct conical funnels, made of curved glass with a silk-screen print that filters light. These architectural features create natural acoustic properties that influence how sound behaves within this space. By treating these funnels as integral instruments, the composition can interact with the environment rather than simply existing within it.
There are two primary compositional approaches considered:
- Treating each funnel as an individual instrument, crafting site-specific musical material that resonates with the unique properties of each space.
- Creating soundscapes that work across all funnels, allowing listeners to move through the space and experience varied auditory perspectives.
Sources:
Nieto Sobejano, “Nieto Sobejano | Project | JOANNEUMSVIERTEL,” accessed January 19, 2025, https://nietosobejano.com/project.aspx?i=4&t=JOANNEUMSVIERTEL;
