A Riedel Bolero wireless intercom system was recently deployed in a stand-alone configuration to enhance communications at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall in England to replace a wired communications system to manage and cue concerts, live events, recording activities and film work in the hall’s Art Deco auditorium and smaller Music Room.
More than 350,000 people attend over 400 concerts and events presented at the hall, including performances by the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra — the oldest continuing professional symphony orchestra in the U.K. — and a lineup of top performing artists. The Bolero system provides production staff with faster and more flexible configuration with reliable operation and quality audio. Further, the Bolero Standalone Application, a license-enabled upgrade for the system, delivers plug-and-play capability, allowing up to 100 antennas and beltpacks to be set up and configured via a web browser without the need for an intercom matrix.
“While we looked at other solutions, Riedel was an easy choice because of the quality of their products, the clarity of the audio, and the flexibility provided by the Bolero system,” says Emma Carey, head of production and technical services for Liverpool Philharmonic. “With Bolero, we can use multiple channels for both wired and wireless packs, with the ability to program them as needed. Furthermore, we can offer our back-of-house customers reliable tools for the job while providing great concert presentation capabilities for the front-of-house.”
Currently, Liverpool Philharmonic is utilizing four six-key Bolero wireless beltpacks and two wireless antennas throughout the hall. In addition, 15 wired digital beltpacks with four headset stations are integrated into the system via Riedel’s Performer C44plus System Interface.
Headsets used with the beltpacks include a Riedel Max headset that’s designed for environments with high levels of ambient noise with enhanced attenuation and added hearing protection, which allows the orchestra’s church bell musician to safely play the bells while remaining in communication with the show’s production team. Moving forward, the Bolero system will allow for further expansion by integrating with additional technologies, such as the hall’s back- and front-of-house paging systems.
“Liverpool Philharmonic is a British institution, and we couldn’t be prouder to have our Bolero system helping to create a memorable experience for the hundreds of thousands of visitors the Hall receives each year,” states Nacho Lee, U.K. sales manager at Riedel. “And for Liverpool Philharmonic staff, the system offers a quick and reliable intercom deployment to speed up their workflow while providing them with the tools they need to take concerts and events to the next level.”
