I was just skimming through the Life & Arts section of The Business Times when I saw the caption on an article :"Face the virtual music".

Underneath it has the statement "Tune in to an orchestral concert from your computer and experience the quality and drama of a live performance".

I strongly disagree.

True, the internet can and has spread the accessibility of music as a whole. Lyrics, tabs, music videos, scores, the music itself and every other whatchamacallit are all available online, legal or otherwise. Even classical music.

The size and cost of maintaining an orchestra is very high, and it might mean that present day orchestras are struggling with funding and support.

In this regard, the internet might spread awareness and support, which might mean an increase in more people to orchestral listening in digital form.

However, I still think nothing can change the magic of a live act, especially an orchestral performance.

The history of each and every instrument in the orchestra and how it is maintained and played affects the sound of the orchestra.

How each individual player draws within him/herself the vibe off each other and the conductor after dedicated practice to finally perform to his/her best on this special evening, every evening.

How your inner soul is set on fire when a soloist pulls off his piece flawlessly, with flair and feeling.

The chill down your spine when the conductor flails his baton for that beautifully broiling crescendo.

The simple acoustics of the venue and where you are sitting affects the sound.

To me, an orchestral performance is, first and foremost, appreciation of the sound. But being able to be there when the magic happens and looking at all the performers doing their best, for you, the audience, makes it much more personal.

So many more things add to the enhancement and enjoyment of an orchestral performance.

Besides, the orchestra (which in its essential form is a group of people playing music for other people) dates back to before any recordings of any type was technologically available. The orchestra is meant to be played in front of a live audience.

I feel plugging in headphones, no matter how expensive and how well it works, cheapens the experience.