Variable Acoustics Design of a Small Proscenium Concert Hall

Abstract

The 403-seat Kung Hsue She (KHS) Concert Hall features a small proscenium stage designed to accommodate a wide range of performances. Attention to room acoustical design emphasized broadening the variability, while recitals by pianists and singers were considered primary. These competing purposes were realized by integrating stage curtains with the stage shell and the coupled volume outside the shell. Detached lateral reflectors were introduced to minimize sound level drop due to use of moveable curtains around the audience. The proposed design strategies were tested using a scale model and were verified in the completed hall.