Ein Tag, fünf Personen - Volkspark Hasenheide

In this feature, I go out into the urban sprawl that is Berlin and track down five unsuspecting pedestrians (all of whom wearing headphones) and ask them one question: "Was hören Sie gerade?"-"What are you listening to?"  

The results and reactions are sometimes surprising...

This week's foray into the fray sees me pestering the good people of Volkspark Hasenheide. It's an unassuming public space from the outside but once you're through the gates, the land opens up into a large undulating sprawl of greenery, complete with a zoo section, open air cinema, dog park and more shady drug dealers than you would care to shake a stick at.

Witalij - Germany

Whilst smoking a neatly rolled cigarette and looking rather contemplative, he was more than happy to indulge my musical curiosities.

What are you listening to? Boards of Canada - "Seven Forty Seven"

"I'm writing a paper about the Korean War."

Lisa - Germany

Taking a break from her inline-skating session, I seized the opportunity to steal a few minutes of her time. She was very patient and forgiving, even putting up with my bumbling German linguistic skills. 

What are you listening to? Minupren - "Liquid Sunday"

"Viel Glück!"

Adrian - Germany

Before I sat down with him, he was resting under a tree about to enjoy a nice cold beer and a joint after work. Despite going through a crisis in his relationship that very day, he was really welcoming and seemed encouraging of my little project.

What are you listening to? Dresden Dolls - "Shores Of California"

"Im feeling a little sad as I broke up with my boyfriend today."

Alexander - The Planet

On a stroll through the park he was in a little bit of a hurry, however I hedged my bets and posed the question to him anyway. Although coming across as a little evasive, he was still somewhat curious and gave me a sneak peek at what he was listening to before disappearing off into the distance.

What are you listening to? Joy Division - "The BBC Sessions"

"I'm from this planet... the universe!"

Udo - Germany

Probably the tallest man in the whole park, he was listening to his music on a tablet device that he carried in one of his large jacket pockets. Extremely friendly and appeared to have a strong passion for music. Unfortunately I didn't realise that I had snapped him with his eyes shut... sorry Udo!

What are you listening to? Leonard Cohen - "In My Secret Life"

"Music lives always!"