2014
In her 2014 book Constructing Urban Space with Sounds and Music, Ricciarda Belgiojoso identifies Max Neuhaus as the pioneer of "acoustic acupuncture"—using sound to trigger a new awareness of the city.
Belgiojoso integrates Neuhaus into her architectural theory through these primary themes:
She argues that Neuhaus’s works, particularly Times Square, do not just exist in space but actually construct space. By creating a localized "sound-zone," Neuhaus provides a physical boundary that pedestrians feel before they understand it.
Belgiojoso aligns with Blake Johnston’s "metaperceptual" approach by noting that Neuhaus’s work remains incomplete without the subjective movement of the listener. The "construction" of space happens in the mind of the passerby as they navigate the frequency shifts.
She discusses Neuhaus’s ability to create permanent landmarks that define a city’s identity without adding visual clutter. This "aural architecture" serves as a counterpoint to the over-saturated visual environment of modern metropolises.
Acoustic Ecology and Social Space: Belgiojoso explores the "politics of silence" mentioned by Faburel, noting that Neuhaus’s subtle drones provide a protective acoustic envelope that shields the individual from the aggressive noise of urban traffic