Yamaha Sound xR powers immersive cathedral installation at Ars Electronica

Austria:

This month, Yamaha Corporation is supporting the premiere of Holy Echo, a large-scale sound installation by Japanese sound artist evala. The manufacturer’s Sound xR spatial audio solution is being implemented to transform Austria’s Mariendom cathedral into an immersive sonic environment at Ars Electronica Festival 2026 from 9–13 September.

Taking place in Linz, Austria, Holy Echo uses the cathedral’s vast architecture as part of the composition, with Sound xR enabling sound to be positioned, moved and shaped throughout the three-dimensional space. Mariendom measures approximately 134m x 130m (HxL), providing a large environment for the spatial audio work.

At the heart of the installation is Sound xR Image, a core component of Yamaha Group’s Sound xR platform. The technology allows artists to control sound images within a three-dimensional environment, creating spatial compositions that respond to the characteristics of the surrounding architecture. For Holy Echo, the approach reimagines Mariendom through sound, inviting visitors to experience the historic cathedral through listening rather than sight.

The project aligns with evala’s ongoing exploration of spatial composition, in which 3D sound systems are used alongside the acoustic properties of individual locations to create immersive works. His practice, presented under the See by Your Ears project, has previously taken place in settings ranging from temples and museums to public spaces and theatres.

evala became the first Japanese recipient of the Isao Tomita Special Prize at Prix Ars Electronica in 2025, while his work has also been presented internationally at events including Sonar in Spain, SXSW in the US and the Asia Culture Center in South Korea.

Holy Echo will premiere at Mariendom as part of Ars Electronica Festival 2026, which features the theme, Negotiating Humanity, examining the future of humanity through art, science and society.