Orchestra pit

The orchestra pit is in theaters or opera houses, the depression between stage and auditorium where the orchestra and the conductor sits (or stands ). The latter usually sits on a pedestal so that it can equal the orchestra and the singers on the stage look good.

Even in the 18th century, the orchestra played at the level of the audience in the stalls in front of the raised stage. The orchestra pit is designed to allow the public a clear view of the stage without having to put the orchestra behind or next to the stage. Still belongs to the orchestra pit, stage techniques to the auditorium. Most orchestra pits are easily masked by the stage ramp. This sinking of the orchestra has become common until the 19th century. Mostly it is still visible to the public. Invisible orchestra pits, there is only the Bayreuth Festspielhaus, referred to there as " mystical abyss ", and in Oberammergau.

An orchestra pit basically degrades the acoustics of the orchestra, but allowed about the comings and goings of musicians, have to wait for long periods. Important optimal sound radiation, the orchestral sound in the audience can not only come into play, but also the mutual listening to the musicians and singers without excessive noise is allowed. Sometimes the orchestra placement it must be adapted to the acoustic properties.

An orchestra pit can be cover for drama performances and concerts on stage. In many modern orchestra pits the bottom is adjustable with a lifting platform, ie the size of the orchestra, the music and directing style can be customized.