Live transmission of Strauss, Beethoven and Klimt makes for a concert technology first.

For the first time ever, a concert by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra has been projected live onto the sails of the iconic Sydney Opera House. The Viennese night, presented in conjunction with the Vienna Tourist Board, included stunning visuals of the Austrian capital itself, along with its artistic and cultural landmarks.

The sold out concert was seen by thousands on the Sydney harbour foreshore as well as being live web-streamed around the globe. With the threatened rain holding off, a full moon allowed for a perfect, atmospheric evening. Among a string of ‘firsts’, the SSO became the first professional orchestral ensemble to feature in live real-time video projections on the SOH sails.

Speaking before the event, Astrid Mulholland-Licht, the Director of Sydney’s Austrian National Tourist Office and a key instigator of the project, admitted to her enthusiasm for the Viennese Secessionists – among them Gustav Klimt – who were united by a shared desire to integrate art into all aspects of life. Viewing all forms of art and craft as having equal status, Mulholland-Licht likened...