The “Sound of Science” application is already making rehearsal processes easier by debuting in a theater environment.
The future is already on stage, at least when it comes to sound. In a collaboration between Siemens and the Bavarian State Opera, a pioneering technological solution has been applied at the Bavarian National Theatre in Munich, revolutionizing the planning of theater acoustics and rehearsal processes. This is digital twin technology, well known in the manufacturing sector, which now enables musicians, directors, and conductors to realistically assess and optimize the acoustics of the concert hall even before the first rehearsal.
The power of virtual reality for perfect sound
For this purpose, the digital twin simulates sound effects, orchestral arrangements, and different configurations of the venue in a detailed 3D acoustic model. With the help of virtual reality headsets, users can test different orchestra positions regardless of their physical location and can also listen to the sound from the audience’s perspective. This capability greatly contributes to shortening rehearsal time and reducing logistics costs while guaranteeing artistic excellence.
Modeling in the Sound of Science application.
It started in the world of opera
The “Sound of Science” application was first presented at the 2024 Salzburg Festival and was later expanded with additional functions in time for the Munich Opera Festival. Now, not only can the configuration of the hall be changed, but a stage set can also be integrated into the simulation, and the position of the orchestra can be varied as well. To enhance realism, a vocal part—performed by soprano Emilie Sierra, a member of the Bavarian State Opera, accompanied by the Bavarian State Orchestra—was also integrated into the application, enabling an even more precise evaluation of the sound.
Stephan Frucht, Artistic Director of the Siemens Arts Program, pointed out that the idea for the application was born from the trend of increasingly shorter rehearsal times and rising concert logistics costs.
Digital twin model in the Sound of Science application.
Engineering precision in the service of art
The essence of digital twin technology is that real-world objects are mapped in the digital space and simulations are carried out with them. By using this technology, manufacturing companies reduce their costs, make decisions about more efficient use of resources, reduce the time required for planning, and mitigate risks. By being able to visualize potential challenges in advance, they can make better decisions in the physical world.
The technological foundation of “Sound of Science” is provided by Siemens Simcenter, which is part of the company’s portfolio of simulation and testing solutions. This system is capable of processing measurement data and calculating how sound waves propagate through a space, taking into account the effect of different materials on reflections. This precision makes it possible to faithfully reproduce the specific acoustics of the hall.
Siemens currently provides a free demonstration application to selected partners in the international cultural scene. Although the commercial launch of the application is not currently planned, the underlying simulation solutions are available for purchase. “Sound of Science” is a good example of how the symbiosis of technology and art opens up new possibilities in the performing arts.