Music

Andrew Bird and Ian Schneller: Sonic Arboretum

Andrew Bird performing in Andrew Bird and Ian Schneller’s Sonic Arboretum. Installation view, MCA Chicago, Dec 6–31, 2011.

Photo: Nathan Keay, © MCA Chicago © MCA Chicago

“Bird could be the only performer who’s lit up both Lollapalooza and Bonnaroo with a combination of vocals, violin, guitar, glockenspiel and whistling.”

—Esquire

A collection of horned speakers, made from compressed recycled newsprint and dryer lint, created by sculptor and instrument-maker Ian Schneller and composer/violinist Andrew Bird, are installed in the MCA’s atrium to create a unique sound garden.

Bird records the initial compositions on-site at the MCA and sends musical information to different groups of horns via multiple loops. He layers and changes the compositions throughout the remainder of the installation off-site via computer technology. The ticketed experience is not a traditional concert: Bird plays violin and manipulates the sounds while people move through the installation space.

Running time: 75 minutes, no intermission

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Installation is free with museum admission

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