By Lia Kovac 

After being the center of the coronavirus pandemic, New York City composer and sound artist Ellen Reid, was determined to create an atmosphere where people can recharge, reconnect and re-energize. Ellen used her expertise in sound design to build an app that does just that. SoundWalk is a GPS-enabled app that accompanies strollers through their walk in Central Park. While encouraging tranquility and introspection through music, the app is also built around the social distancing guidelines to keep the listener’s safe. 

Over the last nine months, New Yorkers have been on the search to find unique ways to stay occupied, motivated and remain sane throughout the pandemic. Anxiety and fear have cast a dark shadow over the city, leaving the residents feeling overwhelmed, anxious and frustrated. The unprecedented challenges this pandemic has inflicted on society is undeniable, especially in a city like New York that thrives off human interaction. Thankfully, with its open space and fresh air, parks quickly became the main attraction and safe haven for people to spend their time and find a sense of peace in the midst of the chaos. Reid was aware of how important parks had become for people during the pandemic. Because park adventures had become such a crucial part of many people’s mental health, she was determined to create something that could enhance the park experience. The idea had been brewing in her mind for quite some time.  It was not until the pandemic hit, that she turned the idea into a new innovation. With an app like this, listeners have been able to escape these uncertain times and reconnect with the world around them.

"I've experienced new feelings and new anxieties, new fears than I've ever experienced before — and with less room to express them," Ellen says.

The great thing about this app is that it is free and easily accessible for everyone to use. In a time like this where a lot of people are struggling financially, it is comforting to know that such an app has been created. The app itself is simple to use. Upon arrival at the park, users download a SoundWalk and turn on their phone’s GPS. Ellen recommends downloading the app prior to arriving if possible, as reception may be spotty in the park. The music the listener hears will depend on which route they choose, allowing them to be in control of their soundscape. Each music piece is inspired by nature. The exploration is self-guided, spanning all of central park’s 840 acres. The deeper into the park the listener goes, the more nuanced the music becomes, enhancing the natural environment. The music was created to harmonize with the park’s landscapes and attractions. The beauty of the app is that no two visits will sound alike, giving listeners something to look forward to. 

The music was written by Ellen and performed by Musicians of the New York Philharmonic, the Young People’s Chorus of New York City: Francisco J. Núñez, Founder / Artistic Director, Poole and the Gang, and the SOUNDWALK Ensemble. To make the experience even more special,  listeners can go on the hunt to discover hidden musical “Easter eggs” around the park. The app was released on Sep 10. of this year and will remain available for New Yorkers to experience until Dec. 31, 2020. The app is set to expand to different cities beginning in 2021. Be sure to keep an eye out for a SoundWalk location near you.

Lia is a culture writer for La Tonique.