LA Phil launches virtual reality orchestra

There may be but a small crowd of people who stand at the intersection of love for classical music and interest in virtual reality technology, but if you are one of those folks (and you're visiting LA this fall), then I've got some good news for you.

VAN Beethoven is a virtual reality experience using Oculus's 360-degree and 3D technology that allows visitors to experience a private concert with the Los Angeles Philharmonic from a customized truck, which is complete with authentic carpet and seating from the Walt Disney Concert Hall. For no extra charge, viewers can don an Oculus Rift headset and enjoy part of Beethoven's Fifth Symphony in a pretty unique way. The VR experience allows guests not only to see and hear the performance of the orchestra, but also feel the quality of the acoustics within the hall.

"Music is a beautiful symbol of unity, and it is very important to share the joy of music with people from all walks of life and from the many different communities in Los Angeles and beyond," says conductor Gustavo Dudamel. "I have often said music is a fundamental human right, and using this technology helps us to make this mission even stronger."

VAN Beethoven will travel across the greater Los Angeles area from September 11 to October 18. For more info, check out LA Phil's website.

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