Spatial modifications of the stage of the opera house for the needs of a concert

Anna Sygulska

doi:10.5277/arc140307

Abstract

The opera house as a cultural and musical area writes itself well into the spatial structure of the city. Within its own architectural structure, it is subject to modifi cations. The following paper addresses the issue of adapting the opera stage for the needs of a concert. Adaptation of the stage is necessary as the opera performance has different spatial and acoustic requirements from those of the concert. Alongside spatial changes within the stage, acoustic properties in the auditorium change. On the basis of concrete realizations, different types of orchestra shells have been shown and connections between orchestra shell architecture and acoustics have been pointed out. In addition, conclusions of computer simulations for an object whose design is under way, and conclusions of investigation in an actual object have been presented here. The analyses point out that it is a crucial architectural issue. Lack of knowledge of architectural-acoustic requirements for orchestra shells results in constructions not performing their function.