Tam-tam, 2020, 130 cm (diameter), bronze. KIT Symphony Orchestra.
The 1.3-meter diameter metal disk displayed here is a musical instrument — a tam-tam, also known as a chau gong. This instrument, originating from Chinese music, has been part of the KIT Symphony Orchestra since 2021. It symbolizes the many decades-long musical tradition at Karlsruhe Research Center and the university. KIT boasts numerous musical ensembles, including the Collegium Musicum, the KIT Symphony Orchestra, and the KIT Concert Choir or also the Big Band. Members of these groups are students, staff, and alumni. Collaborative music-making and other cultural activities foster essential qualities like team spirit, empathy, reliability, and communication skills. Through concerts, numerous tours, and participation in competitions, these ensembles share their passion for music and culture, enhancing KIT’s fame beyond its reputation as a scientific institution. as
The tam-tam, with its powerful, low, booming, and rich tone, symbolizes KIT’s diverse orchestras. Evidence going back at least 100 years exists of these ensembles creating a wonderful sense of community as an important component of the student experience and KIT’s activities in the region, including prize awards even on the federal level. Nowhere else does there exist the possibility to shape culture oneself and convey it to a large audience in such a concentrated space, with such simple accessibility. It is a great pleasure to experience in the rehearsals and concerts so much engagement, solidarity, and skill, and to be able to support it—literally in the positive sense with the “imposing pomp” of a tam-tam. Hans Richter, director of KIT Symphony Orchestra