Nestled on the windswept hills of Burnley, UK, the Singing Ringing Tree is a remarkable sculpture that blends art with music in an unexpected and mesmerizing way. This unique structure stands as a three-meter tall sculpture made from galvanized steel pipes, which harness the energy of the wind to produce a haunting melody that has captivated both locals and visitors alike.
Designed by architects Mike Tonkin and Anna Liu of Tonkin Liu, the Singing Ringing Tree was completed in 2006 and is part of the series of four sculptures within the Panopticons arts and regeneration project created to enrich the landscape of East Lancashire. The project aimed at creating landmarks within the scenic areas of Pennine range, offering both stunning views and cultural enrichment.
The ingenious design of the sculpture allows it to play different chords depending upon the direction and velocity of the wind. This natural variability ensures that the melody produced by the Singing Ringing Tree is never repetitive; according to local lore, it has never played the same tune twice. The structure is carefully crafted to include various lengths and orientations of pipes, which contribute to its diverse and ethereal acoustic outputs. The sounds produced range from soft whispers to haunting notes, depending on the weather conditions.
The location of the Singing Ringing Tree, perched atop the hills of Crown Point above the town of Burnley, also offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The area becomes a confluence of natural beauty and artistic innovation, where visitors can experience the blending of visual and auditory sensations in a serene environment.
The Singing Ringing Tree is not only a tourist attraction but also a symbol of how art can intervene sustainably with nature. It stands as a testament to human creativity and the endless possibilities of combining artistic vision with environmental elements. The sculpture, which has been awarded the National Award of the Royal Institute of British Architects for architectural excellence, continues to allure people from all around the globe, providing a unique, multi-sensory experience that resonates with all who visit the enchanting hills of Burnley.
