Publications (2)3.1 Total impact
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Article: Vocal intelligibility and clarity in amplification: challenges for concert hall acoustics.
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ABSTRACT: The modern concert hall presents a range of programming from soloists and small classical ensembles to large orchestras with choir. In many communities the same concert venue is also required to host a range of amplified events from politely-reinforced ensembles to overtly amplified popular music artists. Maintaining intelligibility of vocals and clarity at high amplification levels depends upon a number of factors both within the control of the acoustics and sound system designers and not. This paper will discuss the programming for a typical season at one 1600-seat concert hall, the elements within its design to allow flexibility of program use, and experiences during the process of adjustment, tuning, and optimizing the hall over its first season.The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America 04/2012; 131(4):3358. · 1.55 Impact Factor -
Article: Graduate education: Meeting the needs of the next generation of professionals in architectural acoustics.
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ABSTRACT: In the fields of architectural-, physical- and psycho-acoustics the pace of change results from research, materials science and professional practice. Integrating the latest advances into pedagogy poses challenges for educators who are charged with training future experts and leaders, many of whom do not have technical backgrounds. To meet this need, the Graduate Program in Architectural Acoustics at the School of Architecture at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute has re-shaped its pedagogy using "STEM" (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) methods enabling individuals from a broad range of fields to succeed in this rapidly changing field. RPI's curricula in architectural acoustics-leading to both M.S. and Ph.D. degrees -includes intensive, integrative hands-on experimental components that fuse theory and practice in a collaborative environment- a "STEM" method. The program has attracted graduate students from a variety of disciplines- including individuals with B.Arch., B.S., or B.A. degrees in Architecture, Music, Engineering, Audio/Recording Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Acoustics, Electronic Media, Theater Technology and related fields. Following completion, most graduates pursue careers in acoustical consulting where an integrated understanding of complex, technical phenomenon is essential. RPI's curricula covers: Architectural Acoustics, Applied Psychoacoustics, Engineering Acoustics, Aural Architecture, and Sonics Research Laboratories.The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America 04/2012; 131(4):3254. · 1.55 Impact Factor
