Introduction

The SoundByNature VR application, developed by group Virtual Harmony, is a virtual reality experience designed to alleviate performance anxiety and, in this specific application, to facilitate singing teaching. Our client (SoundByNature) takes students out to nature for singing practice, and with this VR experience the same calming natural environment can be recreated virtually. The user tunes into the atmosphere of their natural surroundings and can interact with the environment by experimenting with the echo of their own voice. The user benefits from the experience by decreased stress and alleviated performance anxiety.

Results

We successfully developed a virtual reality application using Unity, encompassing four different nature scenes: 1) a wide view from the top of a hill (inspired by the iconic Koli landscape in eastern Finland), 2) on the shore of a calm pond, 3) next to a flowing water in a forest, and 4) looking across a wide forest clearing. The application features a virtually created echo which simulates a realistic echo effect often experienced in nature and which also helps the user to tune into their own voice during singing practice. This echo can be customized by several parameters (delay, volume, threshold) in the settings. The product is compatible for use both with the Meta Quest 2 and Quest 3 devices.

Future possibilities

Already in its present state, the application is suitable for other uses besides singing practice. For example, any application areas where a calm and relaxed state of mind or a sense of immersion are sought could use this application. Examples would include the so-called relaxation rooms that are present in some shopping malls. With even minor modifications, this application could be further tailored for other uses as well, such as mindfulness meditation practice used in treating various medical conditions or just for recreational purposes.