Optimistorkestern, Bronze sculpture ensemble on Södergatan, Malmö, Sweden
Optimistorkestern is a bronze sculpture on Södergatan depicting a five-member brass band with their conductor in dynamic poses. The figures hold detailed musical instruments and stand at the intersection of Södergatan and Skomakaregatan in Malmö's city center.
Created in 1985 by sculptor Yngve Lundell, this work marked the opening of Malmö's first pedestrian shopping street. A drummer on an elephant was added to the ensemble in 2020, fulfilling the artist's original concept.
The sculpture depicts a brass band positioned in the shopping district and serves as a meeting point where locals and visitors naturally gather. It reflects how musical traditions remain part of everyday city life.
The sculpture stands at a busy intersection in central Malmö where foot traffic is constant throughout the day. Visit during daylight hours when you can observe the details of the bronze figures and the surrounding shopping district activity.
The initial composition featured only four musicians and a conductor, yet the artist always envisioned a fifth performer. The addition of the drummer riding an elephant in 2020 was born from conversations about what would make a parade truly complete and memorable.
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