The Science Museum in London is to showcase the Universe of Sound – a major new digital installation, which sees a virtual Philharmonia Orchestra taking up residence for six weeks in May, June and July.
The Universe of Sound will be a high definition interactive experience taking Gustav Holst’s The Planets and presenting it performed by a virtual Philharmonia Orchestra.
Large format display, unconventional projection surfaces and touch screen technology will all form part of the exhibit. A planetarium style projection will even allow a visitor to step inside the heart of a symphony orchestra and take on the role of the conductor.
Richard Slaney, the Philharmonia Orchestra’s Head of Digital, commented:
“This project is the perfect fusion of science and the arts. We learnt through RE-RITE that far from being an elitist art form, there is a colossal public enthusiasm for experiencing classical music, and for stepping inside a real, live orchestra. This project is five times as ambitious, and ten times as exciting. We can’t wait to show people how thrilling a live orchestra really is.â€
Esa-Pekka Salonen, the Philharmonia Orchestra’s Principal Conductor and Artistic Advisor, commented: “This project offers everyone, from the very young to the very old, from the absolute novice to the experienced musician, the chance to step right into the heart of one of the world’s finest symphony orchestras. Our world is by turns preposterously loud, pin-drop quiet, highly-charged, intense and frequently overwhelming. Come and join us – you won’t be disappointed.â€