Dendrophone

Dendrophone (2024) is a site-specific multichannel sound installation that transforms subtle ecological processes into an immersive auditory experience. Developed as part of the AHRC-funded Sensing the Forest project, it sonifies environmental data—such as humidity, solar radiation, temperature, and carbon dioxide absorption—rendering complex and often imperceptible ecological processes audible. By doing so, Dendrophone aims to deepen public engagement with climate change and the fragile balance of forest ecosystems.

The installation is designed to integrate seamlessly with the natural soundscape, layering environmental with complementary electroacoustic sounds: drones, granulated textures, and ‘breathing’ characteristics. Built with a DIY ethos, it prioritises accessibility and sustainability, ensuring that the system is reproducible and adaptable for various public engagement contexts. Live-streaming capabilities extend its reach, allowing remote audiences to experience the installation in real time, reinforcing its role as an ongoing, interactive exploration of ecological sound.

For more information, see https://sensingtheforest.github.io/exhibition/your-sonic-forest-dendrophone-peter-batchelor/.