As Low As Possible

As Low As Possible consists of eleven sub-bass organ pipes made of spruce wood, specially crafted for the installation. Mounted on a circular frame, the entire structure is set in slow rotation by a motor.

Each pipe is capable of producing infrabass tones (between 30 Hz and 42 Hz), at the threshold between the audible and the tactile. Every “grand flute” is supplied with variable air pressure from its own fan, housed at its base. The whole system is driven by an electronic controller that performs a 60-minute composition.

The low frequency range invites a heightened awareness of sound. Once active, listening expands to encompass all the sonic elements inhabiting the presentation space — and beyond.

Woodwork: Yves Scheuner – L’Ébénisterie des Prés-du-lac, Yverdon
Metal & mechanics: Atelier La Grange, Yverdon
Organ-building consultancy: Daniel Bulloz

Commissioned by Festival Archipel

Support: Fondation Nicati-de Luze, SEC Ville de Genève, FCAC, Pro Helvetia