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Acoustics of Severance Hall

1959; Acoustical Society of America; Volume: 31; Issue: 7 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1121/1.1907810

1520-9024

R. S. Shankland, Edward A. Flynn,

Music History and Culture

During 1958 a number of corrections were made in the acoustics of Severance Hall designed to lengthen the reverberation time, especially at the higher frequencies, and to project more sound energy from the orchestra to the audience. An entirely new stage shell has been constructed of heavy wood and is tightly enclosed so that a large fraction of the orchestral sound is now directed to the audience. In addition, the shape of the stage shell provides a considerable amount of mixing and blending of the sound, which is a great advantage for the conductor and orchestra. This feature will also be important for the numerous recordings made by the Cleveland Orchestra. The material and design of the heavy wood shell, floor, and risers for the stage, were chosen to achieve a large measure of reflection without undue resonance. Another important modification is the simplification of the proscenium and removal of the heavy curtain which in effect brings the orchestra out into the auditorium to a greater degree than before. Finally, the heavy lined carpeting which was present throughout Severance Hall on all aisles, promenades, and under the seats, has been removed and replaced with an attractive vinyl tile covering of low acoustical absorption. These modifications have made a notable improvement in the quality and intensity of orchestral music in Severance Hall and are highly approved by the concert audience. [R. S. Shankland, J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 31, 121 (A) (1959)].