Universe of Sound shortlisted for 2013 RPS Awards

The Universe of Sound installation, launched last year as part of the London 2012 Festival has been shortlisted for the 2013 RPS Awards in the Audiences and Engagement category.

This hi-definition interactive journey created by the Philharmonia Orchestra and Esa-Pekka Salonen takes Gustav Holst’s The Planets, and presents a ‘virtual’ orchestra performing the piece. Using giant screens, unconventional projecting surfaces, touch screens, movement-based interaction and planetarium-style projection, visitors can step inside the heart of a symphony orchestra taking on the role of a musician, conductor or composer.

As part of the project the Philharmonia commissioned Joby Talbot to write a companion piece, Worlds, Stars, Systems, Infinity, in which the visitor is able to control the sound levels and timing of each part of the orchestra.

The installation was launched at the Science Museum last May and was so popular that the initial 6 week exhibition was extended by a further 6 weeks. During 2013 the Universe of Sounds has toured to UK cities including Birmingham and Canterbury and will be developed for international touring.

For more information about the Universe of Sound, including press and tour dates please visit the website.