Genuine Auditory Encounters
Copyright: Linz09 / Tollerian
You can’t miss them on the Main Square—the oversized ear trumpets leading directly to the AKUSTIKON, the centerpiece of Linz09’s ACOUSTIC CITY initiative. Linz09 Insiders continue to enjoy free admission to this unique facility until the end of December.
The world of hearing and the multifarious aspects of auditory phenomena—it’s all been brought together inside the AKUSTIKON. There are 300 m² of space devoted to the urban soundscape, the tonal resonance of the universe, acoustic effects and aural illusions. One fascinating highlight is the Polyphone, a giant chest resembling an old-fashioned apothecary’s cabinet in which each of the many drawers contains its own distinctive sound. In the AKUSTIKON, sound is transmitted directly to visitors’ ears—you won’t see any visualizations or graphic depictions of sound, and you won’t be donning any headphones. But the AKUSTIKON isn’t just a place to experience sounds; it also houses a scholarly institution doing scientific work. The European Research & Mediation Facility for the Sustainable Development of Acoustic Space creates acoustic concepts and provides expertise for architectural, urban planning and traffic management purposes.Thus, enabling the AKUSTIKON to continue pursuing its mission after the end of the Capital of Culture year makes good sense. The facility will indeed remain open through March 2010, and there are indications that operations can be financed beyond that as well. Through December 31, 2009, Linz09 Insiders and holders of the Linz09 Card are entitled to free admission to the AKUSTIKON. Free tours will be offered every day the facility is open until December 30th.
Open until March 29, 2010
Thursday to Monday, 4-9 PM
Guided tours until December 30, 7:30 PM each day
Closed December 24 & 31, 2009; open January 1, 2010
Details at www.linz09.at/akustikon and www.akustikon.at
