Acoustical support for small performing groups in “surround” concert halls

Abstract

When a small musical group, such as a string quartet, performs on a large stage, it is usually placed downstage center, in order to achieve close contact with the audience. In this location there are no nearby sound reflecting surfaces to give acoustical support. If the audience is seated “out in front,” as in a proscenium theater the musicians can be helped by surrounding them at the sides and rear with a temporary folding screen, to provide close-in sound reflections and reinforcement of their music. At the same time, it provides a suitable visual background to prevent their appearing lost on the large stage. So long as the height of the screen exceeds about six feet, the acoustical requirements are satisfied and the exact height is a matter only of visual concern. However, when the audience surrounds the stage, as in a number of new concert and recital halls, this approach does not work because the musicians are hidded from view for the audience around the stage. This paper discusses a recital screen for use in surround halls whose height is very much less than is customary. Examples are presented and the acoustical performance is discussed.