Advanced virtual reality headset app enables immersive orchestral experience

Developed in collaboration with OSR by Swiss “art-tech” firm Cybel’Art the so-called Virtual Hall app, which was recently demonstrated to The Engineer at the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) headquarters in London, enables users to listen to music whilst sitting alongside the musicians.  

OSR Director Steve Roger said the technology has been developed  as part of an ongoing effort to remove the traditional barriers to classical music and make classical music more accessible and relevant to a wider and more diverse audience.   “It embodies our commitment to democratizing classical music and forging new connections between the orchestra and the audience,” he said.  

Based on recordings of the Orchestra made using multiple cameras and studio-quality audio recording technology, the app enables users to enjoy the experience from six different 360 degree viewing points, switching - for instance - from an up-close view of the conductor from the string section to a back-row seat amongst the percussionists. The recordings were made in OSR’s home, Geneva’s1700 seat Victoria Hall concert venue.