Case Studies / Single-Operator Concert Livestreaming with the Zemlinsky Quartet

Single-Operator Concert Livestreaming with the Zemlinsky Quartet

07 Feb 2021 - 17:02

A single-operator livestreaming solution powered by CamStreamer App and CamOverlay App enabled the Zemlinsky Quartet to continue performing during the COVID-19 pandemic while reaching audiences around the world through high-quality online concerts.

About the project

The COVID-19 pandemic forced many artists and cultural institutions to cancel concerts, exhibitions, and other public events. In October 2020, the internationally acclaimed Zemlinsky Quartet celebrated the 25th anniversary of its founding. However, due to restrictions on public gatherings, only a limited audience could attend the anniversary concerts in person.

Rather than cancel the performances, the quartet searched for a simple and affordable livestreaming solution that would allow audiences to enjoy the concerts remotely. During October, the solution was successfully used for two live performances, helping the ensemble remain connected with its supporters in the Czech Republic and abroad.

"We were trying to find a solution to allow us to keep our activities going even during the COVID-19 crisis. We thought streaming would be a great and functional way to keep ourselves in the game and remind some people, especially abroad, that we're still around."

– Petr Holman, Zemlinsky Quartet

Technical Solution

Both concerts were streamed from the Municipal Library in Prague using an AXIS V5925 PTZ Network Camera. The camera delivers Full HD 1080p video, offers 30× optical zoom, and allows operators to remotely control pan, tilt, and zoom positions. The venue's technician particularly appreciated being able to control the camera from the same location as the venue's lighting and audio systems.

CamStreamer App was installed directly on the camera, enabling the concerts to be streamed to YouTube without requiring an additional computer or external streaming software. This significantly simplified the production workflow while reducing the amount of equipment needed for the event.

To enhance the broadcast, CamOverlay App was used to display custom graphics prepared through the Custom Graphics service. The technician could switch between predefined titles directly from the Control Room, which is also accessible from a mobile phone. This made it possible to update information in real time, such as the title of the composition currently being performed, while operating the entire production from virtually anywhere.

"It all seems to me like a great technical solution for a simple live stream. I also think the image quality is great."

– Petr Holman, Zemlinsky Quartet

The livestream also included sponsor logos and QR codes displayed as overlays throughout the concert. By scanning the QR code, viewers were redirected to a payment gateway where they could financially support the Zemlinsky Quartet. Because the recordings remained available on YouTube after the event, donations could continue long after the live performance had ended.

The Result

The solution enabled the Zemlinsky Quartet to celebrate its anniversary with audiences far beyond the concert hall while keeping production simple enough to be managed by a single technician responsible for the camera, graphics, and audio.

The online concerts attracted several hundred viewers, with the first livestream reaching approximately 600 views—a remarkable result for a classical music performance. Viewers from abroad, including Hawaii, joined the livestream, helping the quartet reconnect with international audiences despite travel restrictions.

"We're happy that the concert took place for a large number of people who couldn't physically be in the library's concert hall. The first live stream has 600 views, and that's a success for a classical music concert. Even people in Hawaii were watching. I'm glad it worked and that prominent people abroad could see us—it was a reminder for them that we're still playing. A woman called me after seeing our stream and invited us to play a concert."

– Petr Holman, Zemlinsky Quartet

In addition to extending the concert's reach, the integrated QR code donation system provided a simple way for supporters to contribute during and after the livestream, creating a sustainable fundraising opportunity for future performances.

List of Supplies

Hardware

• AXIS V5925 PTZ Network Camera

Software

• CamStreamer App

• CamOverlay App

Location

• Prague, Czech Republic

Video Quality

• Full HD 1080p

Audio

• Internal audio

Streaming Platform

• YouTube

Case Studies / Single-Operator Concert Livestreaming with the Zemlinsky Quartet