Concert Halls

Concert halls are built to host musical performances. It goes without saying that acoustics are their most vital design factor as good speech intelligibility is imperative in most auditoria. Many halls are intended for multi-functional use and it is thus important that they have flexible acoustics to suit different functions. Sound systems utilized in halls must work with and complement the space, this is best accomplished when the acoustics of the hall and the sound system are designed together.

There are many factors to consider when designing the acoustics of a hall. The reverberation of the hall and the support it gives are the most important factors. A good music hall has considerable reverberation, supporting the music and bringing it to life. The length of appropriate reverberation varies significantly however depending on the type of music being played.

A good lecture hall has a lot less reverberation, is ‘dryer’ and clearer than a hall dedicated to music but is still able to give support where needed. Various other factors need consideration such as well-tuned lateral reflections which increase the spaciousness of the sound and reflections on stage which support performers. It should be possible to adjust the acoustics of a multi-purpose halls to two or more situations. This may be achieved by the use of adaptable components such as curtains or screens, or alternatively by electronic means called an electronic sound enhancement system.

Mannvit has experts specializing in acoustics and the solution of acoustical problems. At Mannvit, there is extensive experience in acoustical design and the design of sound systems for concert, lecture and multipurpose halls including the first electronic sound enhancement system in Iceland. In addition to this experience, Mannvit’s facilities for measuring and simulating acoustics are state-of-the-art, a combination that enables Mannvit to engineer effective acoustic solutions for a wide variety of applications.

Project examples

• Multi-purpose hall, Akranes school of music - Complete acoustical design including an electronic sound enhancement system
• Auditoria, Reykjavik University - Complete acoustical design
• Assembly room, Egilstaðir Junior College - Complete acoustical design
• Assembly room, Hópskóli elementary school - Complete acoustical design