Who Said Stairwells Were Just for Stairs? Step Into Immersive Sonic Journeys.

This week, from 10 – 13 December, Melbourne Recital Centre invites visitors to embark on a revolutionary auditory adventure: Immersive Sonic Journeys.

In a dynamic reimagining of its space, the Centre’s foyers, stairwells, and pathways become vibrant soundscapes, showcasing the power of spatial sound compositions in unexpected corners.

Developed in partnership with RMIT University’s SIAL Sound Studios and the Design and Sonic Practice Research Group, this cutting-edge project transforms architecture into art, unlocking the Centre’s hidden potential beyond traditional seated concerts.

Through state-of-the-art spatial audio technology, Immersive Sonic Journeys redefines how visitors can experience music, offering a dynamic, mobile engagement with sound.

At the heart of this initiative is a curated program of commissioned works by Jane Sheldon, Charlotte Leamon, Jasmin Wing-Yin Leung, and Patrick Gunawan, alongside immersive creations from Prudence Rees-Lee, Meri Leeworthy, and Joseph Callaly. Each composition amplifies the interplay of sound, space, and emotion, turning every step into a moment of discovery.

The concept was born from an opportune conversation between Lawrence Harvey, Director of SIAL Sound Studios, Jessie Upton, Visitor Experience Manager, and Latoyah Forsyth, Director of Engagement and Experience at Melbourne Recital Centre. What began as an informal exchange in the Centre’s foyer, and with the knowledge, expertise and passion of Lawrence Harvey at the helm, soon evolved into a creative, collaborative experiential project blending innovation, artistry, and community engagement.

“It’s been an absolute privilege to collaborate with Lawrence and his brilliant team to bring Immersive Sonic Journeys to life. Our goal has always been to activate our spaces in new and meaningful ways, enhancing the experience for music-lovers from the moment they step into Melbourne Recital Centre—even before they enter Elisabeth Murdoch Hall or the Primrose Potter Salon. Seeing this project take shape and witnessing how people engage with it has been exciting and impactful,” shared Latoyah Forsyth, Director of Engagement and Experience, Melbourne Recital Centre.

To deepen the experience, a series of lunchtime talks invites the public to meet the minds behind the magic. Join artists, curators, and the project team for an intimate exploration of the creative process:

• Tuesday 10 December, 12:30 PM – Charlotte Leamon
• Wednesday 11 December, 12:30 PM – Jane Sheldon
• Thursday 12 December, 12:30 PM – Jasmin Wing-Yin Leung
• Friday 13 December, 12:30 PM – Lawrence Harvey

All talks will take place in Melbourne Recital Centre’s ground floor foyer.

This collaboration between RMIT and Melbourne Recital Centre demonstrates how cutting-edge academic research intersects with artistic expression to meaningfully elevate the audience experience, while exploring new frontiers for sound, design, and creativity.

Take the scenic route. Step into sound. Discover Immersive Sonic Journeys and let your ears guide you into a new world of listening. Where will the journey take you?