Glyndebourne Opera House

The Glyndebourne installation represents a major step forward in opera house production technology, combining innovative communication and audio systems to deliver a seamless, world-class performance experience.

Glyndebourne’s decision to upgrade its sound system marked a significant step in modernising its production capabilities whilst preserving the venue’s rich operatic tradition. Opera has long been performed without amplification, relying solely on the natural acoustics of the auditorium. However, the demands of modern productions — including sound effects and pre-recorded elements — required a sound system that could deliver enhanced creative flexibility without compromising the purity of the live operatic experience.

EM Acoustics’ Reference Series was selected for its exceptional clarity, transparency, and natural sound quality. The system was meticulously designed to complement Glyndebourne’s unique acoustics, blending modern reinforcement with the venue’s architectural sound properties. Six R12 loudspeakers and two R8s were installed in the proscenium, providing even coverage across the stage and audience. Two permanent R12s were positioned upstage to handle sound effects, while two R10s and two S-215s on the balcony created an immersive audio experience. Four R8s were suspended from the ceiling for distributed sound, and four S-218 subwoofers were installed beneath the auditorium to provide deep, natural low-end reinforcement. A total of nine DQ20 amplifiers power the system, ensuring consistent and reliable performance.

The system was carefully tuned to maintain a natural sound, ensuring that audiences experience the same acoustic purity expected from live opera. The discreet design of the Reference Series ensured that the loudspeakers remained visually unobtrusive, blending seamlessly with the auditorium’s aesthetic. This balance between tradition and technology allows Glyndebourne to introduce sound reinforcement only when necessary, maintaining the authenticity of the performance.

Jonathan Moss, Head of Sound and Video at Glyndebourne, emphasised the importance of preserving the essence of opera while embracing modern production needs. The new system allows the creative team to experiment more freely with sound design, adding subtle layers of detail without disrupting the natural dynamics of the performance. The system has already received positive feedback from performers and directors, with many noting that the sound remains so natural that the amplification is almost imperceptible.

The upgrade enhances both artistic possibilities and operational efficiency, positioning Glyndebourne at the forefront of modern opera production.

The project faced two major technical challenges: improving complex backstage communication and introducing a discreet, high-quality sound reinforcement system without compromising the venue’s renowned acoustics.
Glyndebourne’s production team already used a Riedel Bolero system for wireless communication and a Riedel Artist system for point-to-point links, but lacked a wired party line for general production use. Typically, this would require complex external interfaces or a large matrix with different option cards — an expensive and difficult solution.
PunQtum provided an elegant solution by integrating seamlessly with the existing Bolero and Artist systems using a single network connection. Its low-bandwidth design worked across the existing network infrastructure without additional cabling. PoE-powered beltpacks could also daisy-chain together, saving valuable network ports. Staff adapted quickly thanks to PunQtum’s intuitive design, with advanced features like missed message playback enhancing functionality.
Finding a sound system that could provide flexibility for sound effects, pre-recorded elements, and subtle reinforcement without altering the authentic opera experience was a significant challenge. The other challenge was integrated a visually unobtrusive design whilst delivering effortless output and natural sound.

“We needed to strike the right balance respecting and honouring Opera’s traditions, whilst also ensuring we chose a sound system capable of providing us with a sophisticated toolbox to meet the demands of modern productions now and in the future. Getting all the stakeholders on board with the idea took some time,” explains Jonathan Moss, Head of Sound and Video at Glyndebourne.

The PunQtum digital partyline solution ensures clear, reliable, and flexible communication using existing infrastructure, enhancing collaboration across all production departments. Glyndebourne already employs Riedel’s Artist-1024 intercom matrix, which allows for point-to-point and complex intercom configurations and works seamlessly with the Bolero Wireless Intercom. Integrated into Bolero, PunQtum extends this system and ensures that all departments are connected.
The EM Acoustics sound system maintains the purity of Glyndebourne’s natural acoustics while enabling creative flexibility for modern productions. The Reference Series’ natural sound quality, discreet design, and high headroom ensure that sound effects remain transparent and unobtrusive.

Glyndebourne Head of Sound & Video, Jonathan Moss says “What we’ve built at Glyndebourne is perhaps not how you would expect an auditorium sound system to be set up,” says Moss. “It is a difficult room for a PA, so we needed to be creative, but also keep the loudspeakers as invisible as possible. We’ve used the technology and shape of the room to design a system that uses the acoustic principles of an opera house and gives it a modern spin.”

For the digital partyline system Moss continues: “We needed a mix of products that could address all user needs while enhancing operational flexibility and future-proofing our technical infrastructure. PunQtum provides advanced features and simple communication without compromising quality or flexibility, making it an ideal addition for our diverse production needs. The usability of the belt packs is fantastic. Even staff who aren’t familiar with communication systems find them intuitive, and we’ve had zero complaints. It’s an incredibly reliable, value-for-money solution that has significantly improved how we operate.”

Ben Sedgwick, Stage Manager, says: “Everyone working in the stage area relies on it, from lighting and stage technicians to wardrobe. During rehearsals and performances, it’s crucial for communication between the stage and front-of-house teams, ensuring smooth transitions and precise coordination. PunQtum delivers clear, direct communication that keeps everything running efficiently.”