More than 1000 contributions

Bruckner’s “messenger” collects music by bike

In this year's Bruckner year, David Wagner is collecting the master's music "from the street" on his bike.

(Bild: Andrea Trawöger)

David Wagner is currently cycling around the country with a curious idea. In 72 streets named after the Ansfeldner master, the Linz native is asking more than 1,000 residents for short, melodious Bruckner contributions. These will later be compiled into a nine-minute song.

I've never been mistaken for a delivery service before," smiles David Wagner, although his outfit resembles that of a bicycle messenger.

Sporty in search of music

(Bild: Andrea Trawöger)

The musician from Linz has already caused a stir in the past, including when he ran a marathon while playing the piano. This time, too, he is combining music with sport: "I'm visiting 72 Bruckner streets, alleyways and paths throughout the country by bike," explains the musician. There he meets up with local residents who have previously rehearsed a short theme from one of Bruckner's nine symphonies.

From bongo to brass band music
The sounding contributions are recorded and put together to form a nine-minute song. "The instrumentation varies greatly, from a bongo to a brass band or an entire kindergarten," says the artist happily.

Artist and Linz resident David Wagner (right) with Bruckner double Wiff La Grange (left) before setting off on the first tour.

(Bild: Andrea Trawöger)

In the end, between 1000 and 1500 musicians are expected to take part in the project. The distances are also quite long: "If I manage exactly 1824 kilometers - the number corresponds to Bruckner's year of birth - that would be great!" grins Wagner.

Half already completed
The halfway point, 36 of 72 stations, has already been completed. The artist is overwhelmed by the response: "At first I couldn't even imagine it, but I soon got into the flow. I also really enjoy cycling between the stations!" A nine-minute film will also document the art project behind the scenes.