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Page 2 of 3 <br />Lewis’s legacy would be commemorated through an ensemble of six musical pieces and a <br />commissioned artwork designed to be displayed together. The proposed artwork would be <br />commissioned from Mountain Forge in Truckee and is envisioned as a dynamic representation <br />of Don conducting an orchestra of instruments, a tribute to both his innovation and passion for <br />music education. <br /> <br />Artistic Merit <br />PASS members expressed strong support for the proposal’s artistic merit. The design was <br />noted to be reminiscent of interactive, sound-based public art seen in other cities, visually <br />striking, playful, and likely to encourage public engagement. While the conductor concept is <br />familiar, its execution in this project was viewed as offering a distinctive and meaningful artistic <br />experience specific to Pleasanton. The abstract form of the conductor, paired with sculptural <br />instrument elements, was described as both inviting and thought-provoking, aligning with the <br />City’s goal of enhancing public spaces through accessible and inspiring artwork. <br /> <br />The harmonically tuned instruments are thoughtfully designed to ensure that anyone, <br />regardless of age or musical ability, can participate and produce pleasing sounds. This <br />inclusive approach supports creativity, self-expression, and shared experiences, fostering <br />social connection through music and reinforcing the City’s vision for public art that engages <br />and unites the community. <br /> <br />Location <br />The proposed location at Delucchi Park was viewed favorably, as it would help activate a <br />different area of the park without interfering with the existing bandstand. Some concerns were <br />raised about visibility due to nearby trees, but staff confirmed that the selected site would be <br />open and will allow for clear views from the sidewalk. The goal for the placement is that it will <br />strike a balance between visibility, shade, and compatibility with other park uses. <br /> <br />Sound <br />The instruments in the Free Notes Harmony Park Sculptural Ensemble are precision-tuned to <br />specific musical scales, ensuring harmonious sound regardless of the player’s skill level. They <br />are also designed for outdoor use and produce pleasant, resonant tones that are audible <br />without being disruptive. <br /> <br />DISCUSSION <br />The Don Lewis Harmonic Symphony is designed to be inclusive, inviting people of all ages and <br />abilities to explore and enjoy music together. Because the instruments are tuned to always <br />produce harmonic tones, the experience will be both accessible and rewarding for users with <br />no prior musical training. The installation will encourage shared participation, spontaneous <br />collaboration, and intergenerational interaction, creating a unique opportunity for community <br />bonding through the arts. The location at Delucchi Park will tie into the musical theme of <br />Concerts in the Park. Attachment 1 shows the proposed location and conceptual design for the <br />art installation. <br /> <br />Staff is requesting that the City Council approve the Don Lewis Harmonic Symphony Public Art <br />Project conceptual design, proposed location, and budget amendment for art acquisition and <br />installation. The total price of the art acquisition is unknown at this time, as the artist will not <br />provide a quote until the project is approved. Staff anticipate that the purchase of all pieces for <br />this artwork will be approximately $110,000, and funding is available in the H.A.P.P.Y. Fund. <br />Docusign Envelope ID: 04C40C7C-1D5C-40F8-AB54-E2C7D9B79ACC