Soundwalk

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.