East End Echoes is a GPS-enabled musical experience—a semi-permanent work of public art located in Houston’s Historic East End. This project captures and documents the stories of Latino/a/x/e immigrants and their descendants who have settled in the area, offering a unique way to explore Houston’s Historic East End’s (you can read more on the East End here) rich cultural legacy.

Participation is simple and free; all you need is a phone and headphones. Access the soundwalk through the free Echoes app or by scanning a QR code/link (coming soon!), then make your way to the East End. As participants navigate the neighborhood at their own pace (by foot or car), they trigger a series of distinct musical and narrative cells that reflect the personal stories and emotions of the community. Each sound segment is meticulously crafted to harmonize with the local landscape, resonating with the lived experiences and cultural richness of Latino/a/x/e residents.

The soundwalk features interviews with members of the East End community, with excerpts of their stories seamlessly woven into music composed by J.E. Hernández. These pieces, performed and recorded by local Houston musicians, bring the voices of the community to life, creating a powerful auditory archive that honors the narratives of the East End.