Download available

Authors:

Valérian Fraisse, Charles Montambault, Marcelo M. Wanderley, Catherine Guastavino

Publication or Conference Title:

Music & Science

Abstract:

PDF/EPUB

Cite
Share options
Information, rights and permissions
Metrics and citations
Figures and tables

Abstract
Sound art in public spaces can shape visitors’ experience, yet few studies have explored the impact of curated sound installations on soundscape. We report on the evaluation of the soundscape of a small urban public space in Montreal, Canada in the presence of different compositions designed for a sound installation, Les Madelinéennes by Charles Montambault. Residents familiar with the site (N?=?25) evaluated various soundscapes in laboratory settings, combining Ambisonics field recordings of the site with spatialized simulations of compositions featuring coastal sounds. Participants rated the resulting soundscapes along semantic scales, identified significant moments, and described them in follow-up interviews. Results revealed that more evocative sounds (boat horns, seagulls, cormorants) were perceived as less appropriate and pleasant, while less evocative sounds (wind, sparrow) were more pleasant and soothing. Interviews also revealed a diversity of associations to the added sounds. The study was well received by the local community and led to design recommendations for the installation on site.

Publication Details:

Type:	Journal Paper
Date:	10/27/2025