Soujourner Pond Music

This semester’s (Fall 2023) project is a sound installation at the Music School Pond, centered around the topic of the Underground Railroad. We have carefully curated a collection of audio samples, including names of people who played a part in this significant chapter of history (abolitionists, conductors, and freedom seekers), as well as snippets of music that represent the URR. The installation aims to immerse the audience in the aural experience and engage them in interaction.

Join us anytime October 24-28, 12-7pm. (Closed when raining.)

The installation involves utilizing a remote-controlled boat on the Music Pond. We developed a project workflow that treats the pond as a navigational ‘map.’ Within the pond, we’ve designated specific locations such that when the remote control boat passes over them, it activates one of the audio samples from our collection. This approach enables active audience participation, with individuals taking control of the boat, effectively making the audience an integral component of our installation.

We believe that leveraging the Music Pond, a shared space for many within the SMTD community, and to actively involve the audience will encourage people to explore and wonder about the installation. It presents a valuable opportunity for visitors to reflect on the Underground Railroad (maybe even plant a seed), take a moment to honor the individuals who played a role in this historical chapter, and contemplate its significance.

This event is supported by the Arts & Resistance Theme Semester.