Art installation features 70 guitar-playing birds

A new exhibit at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts features 70 zebra finches — and 14 guitars.

French artist Céleste Boursier-Mougenot developed the concept which he calls 'living music'. "Looking through the window, my feeling was that I want to make music from these birds on the wire, and 30 years later I did this," the artist stated in a recent interview.

The installation takes place in a makeshift aviary, where the only perches available to the birds are the strings of the 14 guitars. The guitars (10 Gibson Les Paul guitars and 4 Gibson Thunderbird basses, to be precise) are plugged into amplifiers stationed around the space, and music is made as the birds land on the strings.

A veterinarian is on hand to give the birds periodic checkups to ensure their health and happiness.

This is the 19th time Boursier-Mougenot has staged the exhibit, but the first time it will take place in Canada. Check out the video below to see a glimpse of last year's installation at the Barton Gallery of the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, Mass.

(h/t Charlie McCarron)

Love the music?

Donate by phone
1-800-562-8440

Show your support by making a gift to YourClassical.

Each day, we’re here for you with thoughtful streams that set the tone for your day – not to mention the stories and programs that inspire you to new discovery and help you explore the music you love.

YourClassical is available for free, because we are listener-supported public media. Take a moment to make your gift today.

More Ways to Give

Your Donation

$5/month
$10/month
$15/month
$20/month
$
<!--DO NOT REMOVE-CONTENTS PLACED HERE-->