The Wave Organ in San Francisco
Tuesday, April 6, 2010 at 16:58
admin in Places, Sound Art, architecture, installations

This is probably a familiar place for the locals, but believe it or not, I had never heard of the Wave Organ in San Francisco before. The concept of this acoustic sculpture was developed by Peter Richards, and installed in collaboration with George Gonzales. 

The construction of the Wave Organ was completed in 1986 and treats visitors to sonic surprises ever since. As the water moves in and out of the pipes as the waves hit, wonderful sounds are generated. It is not loud, and to fully enjoy it visitors need to listen actively. 

I think an installation like the Wave Organ demonstrates a great way of creating a sonically pleasant environment by helping nature just a little bit. It subtly adds a sparkle to the sounds of the wind and the waves, which are already beautiful by themselves. 

Article originally appeared on Sound Art, Sound Installations, Sonic Inspiration (http://www.everydaylistening.com/).
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