A qualitative criterion for the reverberant fields for organ music and a means of obtaining it

Abstract

Organists and organ builders desire long reverberation times for their instruments. A simple statement of a time is an inadequate specification for the acoustic response of a venue intended for medium to larger organs. An important added specification requirement is that the reverberation decay curve be steep at first and be much less so later if satisfactory clarity is to be achieved. Data is presented to illustrate and establish this criterion. Research is cited to demonstrate how the double slope reverberation decay can be achieved by the use of coupled spaces adjacent to a main performing room. Data is given to demonstrate how some symphony halls have realized the use of this technique.