Wolfgang

Wolfgang is a smartphone app for live classical music. It tells you during the concert, in real-time, about the music being performed. As the orchestra plays, Wolfgang points out what to listen for and offers an interpretation of its meaning. By helping you better understand the music, Wolfgang enriches – and intensifies – your classical concert experience.

Start the app before the concert and put your phone on silent. This way, Wolfgang won't disturb anyone. As the orchestra begins, Wolfgang will commence explaining what you hear using short, well-timed text sentences. Wolfgang narrates leisurely, you only need to glance occasionally at your smartphone. You have ample time to look around and enjoy the music. Put your phone on your lap, if you like.

Wolfgang works with Wi-Fi, 3G or 4G, hardly emits light and doesn’t make any sound. Wolfgang uses little data (circa 1Mb per session) and very little battery power. To switch language, click the language button on the upper right. Look in the app's calendar to see at which concerts you can use Wolfgang.

Wolfgang is initiated by Johan Idema, in cooperation with The Muziekgebouw Amsterdam and design-agency Fabrique.