kathimerini.gr
Hagia Sophia Acoustics Recreated in Istanbul Church
In Istanbul's Balat, a renovated 16th-century church will feature recreated Hagia Sophia acoustics using Stanford research, 30 Greek Byzantine singers, and Dolby Atmos technology, completed by September 2024, aiming for cultural unity.
- How does this project in Istanbul's Balat district restore and share a significant piece of Byzantine cultural heritage, and what are its immediate implications?
- In Istanbul's Balat district, a 16th-century church, the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary Balinou, was renovated and reopened in November 2023, thanks to Byron Nicolaidis, CEO of PeopleCert. A unique project then commenced: recreating the acoustics of the Hagia Sophia before its conquest in 1453 within this restored church.
- What technological and artistic collaborations were involved in recreating the acoustics of the Hagia Sophia within a smaller church, and what were the challenges?
- Using digital simulations by Stanford researchers and recordings of 30 top Greek Byzantine singers, the project aims to reproduce the Hagia Sophia's unique 12-second reverberation. This involved six months of rehearsals and recording 28 hymns in Dolby Atmos, followed by acoustic processing at Stanford to apply the Hagia Sophia's sound profile.
- What are the broader implications of this project for the preservation and accessibility of historical cultural heritage using technology, and how might it influence future similar endeavors?
- This project, expected to be completed by September, will offer a permanent installation combining sound and visuals. It aims not just to recreate the past but to serve as a symbol of unity, making a vital part of history accessible to all via technology, transcending geographical and cultural barriers. The initiative highlights the potential of technology to preserve and share cultural heritage.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative is framed positively, emphasizing the innovative and unifying aspects of the project. The headline (if there was one) would likely focus on the successful recreation of the sound, potentially downplaying the complex technical process and financial investment involved. The repeated use of words like "miracle", "astonishing", and "unifying" contribute to this positive framing.
Language Bias
The language used is largely celebratory and emotive. Phrases such as "miracle," "national team of cantors," and "astonishing" contribute to a positive and potentially biased tone. More neutral alternatives might include descriptions focusing on the technological achievement and the collaborative effort, avoiding overly emotional language.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the technical aspects and the individuals involved in the project, potentially omitting other relevant viewpoints or historical contexts regarding the Hagia Sophia's acoustics and its significance to different communities. There is no mention of potential criticisms or controversies surrounding the project, which might have provided a more balanced perspective.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a largely positive and uncritical view of the project, framing it as a purely beneficial endeavor without acknowledging potential downsides or alternative approaches. There's no discussion of limitations or challenges faced during the project's implementation.
Gender Bias
The article primarily focuses on the male figures involved (Byron Nikolaidis and Jonathan Abel), giving less prominence to the contributions of the female researchers and singers. While Bissera Pentcheva is mentioned, her role is less detailed compared to the men's. There is no overt gender stereotyping, but the gender imbalance in the narrative could be perceived as subtle bias.
Sustainable Development Goals
The project revitalizes Byzantine hymns and makes them accessible using technology. This fosters cultural preservation and education, aligning with SDG 4 (Quality Education) which promotes inclusive and equitable quality education and promotes lifelong learning opportunities for all.