Museum exhibitions are usually planed around a very prominent visual approach that does not take into account the acoustic dimension of mediation. However, with time museums have understood the inevitable importance of multisensory experiences that mix auditory, visual and tactile elements into a visit. Thus, the employment of sound in museum mediation has become more and more implemented. Indeed, sound can be a very powerful component for an exhibition. It can structure it in a very subtle way, as well as add a layer of meaning to the visit whether in literal or abstract understanding. By incorporating soundscapes, narratives, and interactive auditory guides, museums can create immersive journeys that cater to diverse audiences, including individuals with visual impairments.
Sound trail is a mediation tool that has been used to design unique experiences that guide visitors through museum exhibits or cultural spaces. It combines narration, sound effects and music to provide thematic storytelling visits. Here are key features to understand about sound trails:
- Guided navigation: Sound trails lead visitors through a predefined route, providing auditory cues and guidance.
- Thematic storytelling: They often have a narrative element, linking together the content of various exhibits into a unified experience. Storytelling strategies may offer even more immersive experience, like “interviews” with historical figures or even fictionalised narratives that are intertwined with real historical facts or events.
- Personalised interaction: Modern sound trails can adapt to visitor preferences, offering different routes, languages, or content depth.
- Increased accessibility: By providing rich auditory descriptions, sound trails make exhibits more inclusive for visitors with visual impairments or other accessibility needs.
Here are 3 examples that can give an idea of how sound trails can be used as an inclusive on-site mediation tool:
- The Sonic Futures project at the National Science Media Museum, Bradford:
The aim of this project was to explore innovative methods to engage audiences with sound by integrating soundscapes into the exhibits. Visitors could listen to recreated environments, such as the sounds of early cinema or broadcast media, which enriched their understanding of the historical contexts behind the displays.
Further reading about Sonic Futures project.
- Musée de la Musique, Paris (Museum of Music in Paris):
The museum developed a sound-based approach to enhance its display of musical instruments. Visitors could hear the instruments in action through curated soundtracks, creating a dynamic connection between the visual display and the auditory experience.
Check out article “The Sound of Museums: Music and Silence in Music Exhibitions”
- Museums across Lombardy:
The museums across Lombardy adopted sound trails to promote the principle of « Access for All. » This included using sound to provide historical context, guide visitors through exhibits, and enhance the overall experience.
These examples highlight the versatility of sound trails, from standalone auditory immersion to interactive storytelling and inclusive navigation.