Universe of Sound arrives in Plymouth

A huge digital installation that gives people an amazing opportunity to step inside the beating heart of an orchestra will be open free of charge in Plymouth’s city centre piazza from Monday 27 April to Saturday 9 May.

Inspired by the latest technology, iOrchestra’s ‘Universe of Sound’ will be open daily from 10am to 6pm and will allow visitors to walk through a digital orchestra as they perform Gustav Holst’s ‘The Planets’.

Inside the tent, visitors can explore a virtual orchestra, see each instrument up close, join in with the percussion section and even have a conducting lesson.

On the last day (Saturday 9 May), local residents will be able to listen to the Philharmonia Orchestra itself live at Plymouth Pavilions. Tickets for this event are just £5 and can be purchased via the Pavilions website and box office.

Alongside Universe of Sound, MusicLab – a free pop-up ‘play-and-create’ musical truck – has also taken up residence in Plymouth. The truck has already visited communities in North Prospect and Whitleigh. It will be in Efford from 27 April to 2 May and in Stonehouse and Devonport from 4 to 9 May. So far, the response has been amazing from children and adults alike.

Deputy Council Leader Peter Smith said: “Plymouth is very fortunate to play host to a project like this, which combines the latest technologies with a strong commitment to community engagement. iOrchestra was a brilliant experience for everyone who attended last year and I’m sure this year will be even more of a success.”

For times, dates and locations for all of the above, as well as related online resources and films, visit www.iOrchestra.co.uk.