Sonification of Income Inequality on the NYC Subway
Sonification of Income Inequality on the NYC Subway
Sonification of Income Inequality on the NYC Subway launched on February 3, 2015 with 15 votes and more than 75% of that year's launches. The site was still online in September 2026, 11 years on.
In plain words
Sonification of Income Inequality on the NYC Subway is an audio project that transforms median household income data into music. Created by Brian Foo, it emulates a ride on the 2 Train through Brooklyn, Manhattan, and the Bronx, where the quantity, volume, and dynamics of instruments change based on the income levels of each neighborhood. Wealthier areas feature more prominent instrumentation, while lower-income areas have sparser soundscapes. The project is designed for anyone interested in data visualization through sound and exploring economic disparities in urban environments.
written from the facts on this page · September 2026
From the sources
© 2015 Brian Foo | [email protected] , Twitter , Facebook , Soundcloud , Vimeo , Mailing List The goal of this song is to emulate a ride on the New York City Subway 's 2 Train through three boroughs: Brooklyn, Manhattan, and the Bronx. At any given time, the quantity and dynamics of the song's instruments correspond to the median household income of that area. For example, as you pass through a wealthier area such as the Financial District, the instruments you hear in the song will increase in quantity, volume, and force. Stylistically, I want the song to exhibit the energy and orderly chaos of the NYC subway system itself. Listen to the song by using the player above, or check out…from datadrivendj.com
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