SVOrk: Stanford Virtual Reality Orchestra

Kunwoo Kim; Andrew Zhu; Eito Murakami; Marise van Zyl; Yikai Li; Max Jardetzky; Ge Wang

SVOrk: Stanford Virtual Reality Orchestra
Image credit: Kunwoo Kim; Andrew Zhu; Eito Murakami; Marise van Zyl; Yikai Li; Max Jardetzky; Ge Wang

Abstract:

This paper chronicles the creation of the Stanford Virtual Reality Orchestra (SVOrk), a new computer music ensemble where both performers and audience engage in a shared, fully immersive virtual reality (VR) chamber-esque concert experience. Motivated to explore group-based live performance within VR, SVOrk has designed and crafted virtual musical interfaces, fantastical 3D-modeled environments, and a network infrastructure to support real-time shared participation. Inherent within this initiative is a reimagining of conventional concert experiences, introducing virtual lobbies, customizable avatars, and immersive audience interactions. These experimental features explore new forms of social presence, audience identities, and expressive communication to help address the overarching question, “What does it mean to participate in a VR musical performance?” SVOrk’s premiere concert took place in June 2024 with five performers and approximately 60 audience members (across five sessions), featuring a program of six musical works. This paper describes the motivations behind SVOrk, its research and development process—including designs for networking, avatar, and audience interaction—and takeaways from the premiere concert. We also present audience feedback and reflect on our experiences in curating group VR performances.