Abstract
The multichannel MIDI system known as the ‘‘Virtual Orchestra’’ has been used several times in the pit for the performance of opera, and recently demonstrated at an ASA regional chapter meeting in Boston. This paper discusses technical issues such as the selection of the types of loudspeakers and their placement in the pit, the amplifier power requirements, and the sound level calibration for each instrumental section based on a mezzo-forte norm. ‘‘Wolf’’ tones caused by understage extension cavities and other pit deficiencies can be easily modified within the MIDI computer program or with external equalization. Ideas are presented for the use of this new tool with respect to an acoustic freedom heretofore unavailable to orchestrators of musical theater works. The computer operator’s ability to follow in real time the conductor’s direction in nuance and tempo guarantees a cohesive performance synchronized with the singers and the dramatic action.
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