Musical Swings is an urban interactive installation that stimulates human connections in public spaces. Imagined as a collective experience, the work invites people of all ages and backgrounds to make music together. It’s an intuitive game, where cooperation between participants unlocks secret melodies, encouraging collaboration and an active awareness of others.

Each swing triggers notes from classical instruments: piano, harp and vibraphone. The interactive soundtrack is inspired by the pendulum, the higher the swing, the higher the note. When the swings move together in synchronicity, they create a musical composition through which unique melodies emerge. The gentle, kinetic quality of the acoustic sounds blends seamlessly into the environment.

Created in 2011, the installation has become a celebrated icon of Montreal’s entertainment district, returning seasonally every spring. As a result of its success, a touring version of the Musical Swings was created and has been travelling the world, receiving a number of international awards and recognitions.