Indoor Performing Facilities

By Kumbha Young Grenier

There is without doubt, a growing awareness of improvements that are being made in acoustic design as perceived by the spectator. Suitable acoustics are essential in any space where sound is to be transmitted to a listener. Acoustics play an increasing role in the success of a performing facility, be it for conferences or rock-and-roll.

In acoustics we are concerned by three main elements. Firstly; the sound source (voice, instrument, loudspeaker, etc...), secondly; the transmission of sound through the air, thirdly; the sensations produced by sound waves in space. The listener is, in general, affected by all three of these acoustics divisions. For any facility aiming at maximizing sound quality for the audience all these acoustic elements should be taken into serious consideration.

Auditorium acoustics is an undertaking that involves study and analysis of direct and reflected sound for both voice and music. Auditorium acoustics are determined according to the room’s intended use. Classical music is best appreciated with a warm or rich reverberation. Speech by contrast is clearer in a room with less reverberation. This means that due to their very different characteristics it is critical to accurately design in order to accomplish a distinctive acoustic result with minimum concession. On the other hand there are multipurpose facilities that need to cover a variety of uses. It is possible to make multipurpose venues sound acoustically good with early planning, the right design, treatment and a little compromise. In order to achieve the best result it is a requirement for a new auditorium to take acoustic considerations early in the design phase. These considerations include room shape which will determine the venues signature sound.

Dance and drama theaters are unique spaces often designed for a specific use. The acoustic design of a theater must enhance a performance to create a connection between the performer and audience. Clear straight line of site and sound between the stage and audience will encourage this relationship, but will also form clear natural amplification. Sound amplification systems should be considered together with room acoustics at the onset of a project. Theaters with a focused function offer a real opportunity to a venue to achieve acoustical excellence.

Multipurpose auditoriums, theaters or rooms cover the use and needs for concerts, theater, dance, films, lectures, conferences, etc... Due to budget limitations these types of venues have become more attractive, instead of building several dedicated spaces, for schools and small organizations. Design criteria for any room should be based on the estimated percentage of use for a particular function. This is particularly important for a multipurpose facility. It is possible to make multipurpose rooms sound good for a variety of uses given that the acoustic design will have to accept a certain degree of concession. Acoustical design and treatment is essential to bring out a venues fullest potential.

Acoustical quality is ultimately determined by the will of the client. Early architectural acoustic planning together with integration of a sound system will achieve successful results. A good listing environment will enhance a performer’s freedom of expression and intimacy with the audience. An outstanding venue will proudly attract artists and spectators alike to enjoy the virtues of wonderful facility.

- Courtesy Sound Solutions & Pro Sound Systems -