Eastern Branch Meeting

Eastern Branch Evening Meeting

Developments in Auditorium Acoustic Design

Presentation By

Rob Harris, Rob Harris Design Ltd

Thursday 25 April at 7pm

In auditorium acoustics objective science and engineering are employed to elicit subjective perceptions and emotions. This lecture discusses the auditorium acoustic design of concert halls, opera houses and theatres, by one of the leading concert hall designers in the UK. It starts with describing some fundamental requirements for audiences, performers and other stakeholders. Both scientific and other factors are considered. The lecture will then look at how the art and science have developed over the last 35 years. This will include the use of scale and computer modelling, the paradigm shift of auralisation and the integration of architecture and creative digital audio. The scientific and engineering responses to changing artistic and audience needs will be examined.

Rob Harris started out as a stage lighting designer and sound engineer in the West End of London, mixing major musicals such as Hair and Jesus Christ Superstar. After studying for an MSc in acoustics at ISVR, University of Southampton, Rob moved into the acoustics industry, working for Arup for 33 years, ending up as a Director of Acoustics, Theatre Design and Arts and Culture. Since then he has set up his own business Rob Harris Design Limited, and is a visiting professor at ISVR, University of Southampton.

CPD Certificates will be available.

There is no need to book places for this event.  Please direct any questions about the meeting to:-

Jody Blacklock, Secretary Eastern Branch,

Tel. 07850 620304; E-mail: jody.blacklock@createconsultingengineers.co.uk

For all Regional Branch activities please refer to the IOA website at:www.ioa.org.uk

 Directions to the Weston Homes Community Stadium

Postcode for satnav users is CO4 5UP

Driving From London:

Take the A12 towards Chelmsford off M25 and follow A12 beyond Chelmsford towards Colchester

Do not take any of the early exits off the A12 signed Colchester Central but instead carry on to the new Junction 28 (signposted for the Hospital), which takes you directly into the stadium site.

Having turned off onto the slip road, turn right at the first roundabout. Go across the bridge and then go straight over the second roundabout, before turning right into United Way from the third roundabout. You are now at the stadium

Driving From Ipswich:

Take the A12 from Ipswich towards Colchester

Turn off at the new Junction 28, signposted for the Hospital

Turn left at the first roundabout. Turn right into United Way from the second roundabout. You are now at the stadium

Train / Bus:

Take Greater Anglia train to Colchester North Station

First Group buses from North Station to stadium include: No 65