Octave 9

Seattle Symphony

The Future of Music is Here

Octave 9 is a new type of concert hall, with immersive 360-degree graphics, visualizing the sound and motion of a performance.

Infinite Animations

Early in the design phase, we created a scrapbook of images for inspiration. These were visually striking in different ways. I remember sitting in a design meeting, when the "lightbulb moment" struck: I realized we could implement a generalized system to render all of these graphics, and many more, smoothly morphing between them.

The visualizer uses OpenGL shaders to draw "particles", each capable of changing size and shape, and blurring in-and-out of focus. Together, the particles create a cohesive feeling of three-dimensionality.

I created a motion framework using multiple "flow" patterns, to produce rich animations. For example: if you begin with a ring of jittering particles, then tumble the ring in 3D space, the result is an undulating sphere. A physics engine smooths the overall motion, and can be adjusted to relax (or energize) a scene.

Creative Controls

I developed a content management system, allowing users to create animations, and compose entire playlists for live performances. With one click, users can push their creations to the screens at Octave 9, and edit the visuals in real-time.

The visualizer has its own API, enabling artists to manipulate visuals during a performance. This feature was used extensively during a 24-hour electronic music event.

I developed a motion-tracking layer, which monitors movement within the space, and streams the motion vectors to the visualizer. Performers and guests can wave to disperse clouds of particles, and throw the particles around the circumference of the screen.

Belle & Wissell, Co. Seattle Symphony, Raisbeck Music Center 100,000+ 2019