Jun 1
2010

Poland is celebrating Frédéric Chopin’s 200th anniversary and Warsaw has prepared a special installation: black granite park benches were set up along a path making reference to one of the most famous 19th century piano composers who bequeathed his heart to be laid to rest in a church in the Polish Capital.

.Stone benches in Warsaw reminiscent of Frédéric Chopin.Stone benches in Warsaw reminiscent of Frédéric Chopin.

Those expecting mere inscriptions in the stone benches will be surprised to find 2d barcodes engraved in the stone: the barcodes can be photographed with help of a mobile phone. Upon sending the information the user will be informed of special events.

Furthermore each bench is equipped with a knob allowing passers-by to take a rest and listen to a 30-second piece by the composer. The electronic components are resilient and can withstand temperatures of -45°C to +85°C.

Another more inconspicuous installation is situated next to the Chopin Museum: here black stripes are systematically distributed among the grey granite slabs reminiscent of piano keys.

Photos with friendly permission of the Polish trade magazine Nowy Kamieniarz.

Piano-key-sidewalk.