Page 24 - Spring 2009

Fig. 4. Konzerthaus, Berlin, Germany (Beranek, 1996).
are designed to scatter sound in many directions. Additional diffusive elements such as columns, statuary, and chande- liers are frequently added.
Another important factor is the ability of the orchestra to hear itself. Reflective surfaces located above and around the orchestra area enhance the musicians’ ability to hear each other. In rectangular halls the orchestra is located at one end of the room up against highly reflective surfaces. In these halls the sound is confined to a lateral angle of about 90 degrees while an orchestra in the middle of a room radiates into the full 360 degrees (Hidaka et al., 2008). This increases
Vereinssaal has 1750, Teatro Colon 2487, Konzerthaus 1575, and Concertgebouw 2037. The exception is Symphony Hall at 2625. The average seating capacity of the top five is about 2100 and the top ten about 2000. Sound strength is greatest in smaller capacity halls since the audience represents the largest absorbing surface.
Ceiling heights, as measured from the main floor in areas not covered by balconies, are usually greater than 50 feet. Vereinssaal is 57 feet, Symphony Hall 61 feet, Konzerthaus 58 feet, Concertgebouw 52 feet, and Teatro Colon 87 feet. All of these ceilings are highly diffusive—they
Shoebox Halls 23