Overview

In this project study, I explore my role as the sound designer for LUMINISCENCE, an immersive show that merges art and technology to celebrate the heritage of iconic sites. After captivating over 200,000 spectators in Bordeaux and Paris, LUMINISCENCE made its way to Lille, bringing its innovative 360-degree video mapping and live music experience to the historic Notre-Dame de la Treille Cathedral. Commissioned by Chut On Vous Écoute, I was tasked with creating a soundscape that would enhance the visual spectacle, breathing life into the cathedral's storied past.

Challenges

The challenge: merging history and creativity

Notre-Dame de la Treille, with its blend of medieval roots and contemporary design, presented a unique challenge. The sound design needed to reflect the cathedral’s rich history while complementing the modern, luminous projections that brought the building to life. My goal was to create an auditory experience that resonated with the audience, evoking the passage of time and the cathedral’s journey through centuries of architectural evolution.

The solution: crafting a timeless soundscape

To achieve this, I began by sourcing a variety of ambient sounds that could evoke different historical periods, from the cathedral’s medieval origins to its completion in 1999. These sounds included everything from the subtle echoes of ancient chants to the more contemporary hum of the city that now surrounds the cathedral.

In addition to these historical elements, I introduced creative sound design to accompany the dynamic light show. Using modern techniques, I crafted sounds that interacted with the 360-degree projections, amplifying the visual impact and enhancing the overall immersion of the audience. Each sound was meticulously timed to align with the visual elements, ensuring a seamless blend of light and sound.

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Findings: a symphony of light and sound

The LUMINISCENCE project underscored the power of combining historical authenticity with creative innovation. The soundscape I developed not only honored the architectural grandeur of Notre-Dame de la Treille but also added a new dimension to the audience’s experience, allowing them to engage with the cathedral’s history in a deeply sensory way.

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This project also highlighted the importance of collaboration in creating immersive experiences. Working closely with production team at Chut On Vous Écoute ensured that the sound design perfectly complemented the visual storytelling, creating a cohesive and captivating performance.

My work on the LUMINISCENCE show at Notre-Dame de la Treille is a testament to the role of sound design in enhancing cultural and historical narratives. By blending historical soundscapes with innovative audio techniques, I was able to contribute to a truly unique spectacle that celebrates both the past and the present. This project exemplifies how sound can transform a visual experience, making history feel alive and relevant to modern audiences.