Unique sound experience in the world’s largest limestone caves
On Saturday, 20th May, a unique sound experiment is opened in the world’s largest limestone caves as part of “The Overheard”. The work created by the Danish artist Søren Knudsen Lyngsø can be visited until 15th August.
On 20th May, the artist Søren Lyngsø Knudsen presents his work “Gravitational Vibrations” in the wondrous environment of the limestone caves of Mønsted Kalkgruber. Mønsted Kalkgruber, which are known to be the largest limestone caves of the world, offer outstanding acoustics and a long cultural history. Visiting the limestone caves is in itself a magnificent experience, and together with the sound experiment, a signature acoustic and visual atmosphere is created.
”Gravitational Vibrations” is a large sound sculpture that is placed in the centre of a small lake in the wonderful surroundings of the caves. The work is built around a steel resonance box standing on four legs, and from its bottom side, eight piano strings are hitched up to giant boulders. Another system consisting of servomotors strikes the strings with a more percussive effect. The two systems form the foundation for a sound composition that resonates within the cavernous space and uses the unique acoustic character of the limestone caves. The sound itself is purely acoustic and only amplified by the steel resonance box.
The Overheard/Listen to what usually goes unheeded
”The Overheard” is part of the official programme of the European Capital of Culture – Aarhus 2017. The project is brought to life by Morten Riis and Marie Koldkjær Højlund from the Sound Studies at the Aarhus University. Throughout the whole year, the project shall draw attention to the sounds that usually go unnoticed and invites everyone to listen to our living sound environment by means of sound installations, powerful concerts and inventive workshops. In this way, “The Overheard” aims at inspiring people to rethink the differences between music, sound and noise.
Aarhus 2017’s CEO Rebecca Matthews describes the project:
“In a very surprising and innovative way, “The Overheard” turns Central Denmark Region into an acoustic playground. By combining different expressions and channels, “The Overheard” breaks down the barriers between art, music and everyday sound-experiences. Moreover, the project has created new relations between industry, cultural institutions and artists from home and abroad. “The Overheard” has become the beacon of sound throughout the whole of 2017 – and embodies what it means to rethink.”
For the next months, ”The Overheard” will present several spectacular sound installations and unique concerts:
20th May/Mønsted Kalkgruber, Gravitational Vibrations (Søren Lyngsø Knudsen)
2nd June / Struer, Gimsinghoved Kunst og Kulturcenter, Wind & Water (Frode Gundorf Nielsen)
1st July / Mindeparkens monument, Aarhus, 4140 Voices (Marie Højlund & Morten Riis)
4th August / Vandtårnet i Lunden, Horsens, Tower Music
