Living Symphonies

Living Symphonies is a musical composition and installation that grows in the same way as a forest ecosystem.

Taking data stimulus from the species of flora and fauna that inhabit the landscape of Epping Forest, it will create an ever-changing symphony heard from a network of speakers hidden throughout the woodland itself.

The installation will take place in an area of Epping Forest near to Chingford Plain, where pollarded trees are the legacy of centuries in which the woodland was managed by local people, creating a unique, biodiverse ecosystem. This ancient relationship will be reflected in Living Symphonies as local musicians represent each species of Epping Forest through a unique set of melodic and rhythmic motifs that portray their changing behaviour over the course of the day and night.  

The event, which is also part of the Mayor of London’s National Park City Festival, is a timely look at the role that the capital has played in creating the living world that surrounds it.

Walk through the depths of the forest as the sound of Living Symphonies begins to spring to life from the undergrowth and canopy around you.

Living Symphonies is part of the Mayor of London’s National Park City Festival. Come and discover London’s amazing outdoors with free events across the city from 20 to 28 July.

Image credit: Luke Turner