Southbank Centre unveils new “experimental” soundsystem, Concrete Voids
London’s Southbank Centre has unveiled its new “experimental” soundsystem, Concrete Voids, created and designed by the centre’s sound technician.
The new system is custom-built using loudspeakers across Southbank Centre’s auditorium, flaunting a bespoke design that turns the space into an “epic three-dimensional instrument”.
Concrete Voids was made and designed by Southbank Centre’s sound technician, Tony Birch, who utilised over 80 speakers hidden within the chambers and vents around the Queen Elizabeth Hall auditorium.
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“Concrete Voids is an incredible opportunity for artists to expand the horizon of their artistry as we provide a platform for new, ambitious music,” says artistic director Mark Ball.
“Equally, audiences will be able to experience a revolutionised atmosphere in the Queen Elizabeth Hall. Despite all its tonnes of concrete, the space echoes with life!”
The system is said to offer “complex sound-worlds” during an artist’s performance using spatial audio solution TiMax panLab, which can be “moved and manipulated within the space, even by the artist as they perform”.
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To showcase Concrete Voids in all its power, the new soundsystem will be debuted in March with a string of concerts set to take place throughout the year.
On March 16, musician Peter Gregson will premiere the system with a performance fusing cello, synths, and strings alongside the Southbank Centre Resident Orchestra Aurora Orchestra.
In April, London rapper Lex Amor is set to bring her blend of music and poetry to the centre, exploring “anthropological and societal themes”. Electronic artist GAUNT will then take the reins in October, performing a new audiovisual show.
Tickets for the first Concrete Voids shows are live now. Grab yours here, and check out some photos below.
Gemma Ross is Mixmag’s Assistant Editor, follow her on Twitter
