I took my sound walk not indoors, but through Grand Central
Terminal. While the assignment implied a walk through a neighborhood, I deemed
Grand Central appropriate for the assignment because there is a lot to be seen,
and heard, in such a a large and populated place that many people frequent
daily, much like a neighborhood. Additionally, I happen to spend quite a bit of
time in Grand Central every week but not once have I ever thought of taking my
headphones off and listening to everything around me.
The first thing you’ll notice as walk through the terminal
with open ears is obviously the chitter chatter. Lots of it, and in countless
languages and accents as well. Past the constant hum of conversation, you’ll
hear a lot of mechanical sounds – clicking and beeping of walkie-talkies for
both the MTA employees and the soldiers who keep the peace, ticket machines
operating, and the sounds of the little MTA vehicles doing whatever it is they
do. And then beyond those, you’ll pick up on the “soundmarks” of the area.
These are very recognizable and distinct to the locations. Things such as the
loud whirring of a train pulling in, or the omniscient MTA voice making benign
announcements, much like on the subway trains. These soundmarks make it clear
to you just what exactly you’re walking through. If you could not see, you’d certainly
be more than capable of realizing the insurmountable conversation occurring
around you, combined with the “Thank you for your cooperation” announcements,
would most likely suggest that you’re in the busy hub that is Grand Central.
