New Orchestra Shell for the Atlanta Symphony

Location
Atlanta, Georgia

Owner
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

Team
Acoustics - Threshold
Theatre Consultant - Auerbach Pollock Friedlander

Size
17,000 square feet
1,800 seats

Schedule
Completed 2013

Threshold worked closely with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO) and Auerbach Pollock Friedlander to develop a new modular orchestra shell that accommodates the unique choral requirements of the 200-voice Atlanta Symphony Chorus and the 60-voice ASO Chamber Chorus.

Within each module, the lower wall is thickened to enhance acoustic warmth while keeping overall weight to a minimum. Money saved in the shell construction was then diverted to wall panels extending the shell beyond the stage to flank the audience, acoustically blending the shell with the audience chamber in a way that would not have been possible without this thoughtful approach to the shell itself.

Tests and adjustments were made during rehearsals in order to get the onstage acoustics just right before opening night. The team spoke with the orchestra and the chorus, taking the time to check with musicians about the configuration of the shell and how the performers felt about the changes to the shell, allowing for acoustic performance to surpass expectations.

“The sound is more immediate; there is more bloom. Personally, I find it easier to make a quality sound, especially in quiet dynamics. I am hearing other sections of the orchestra much more easily, especially the woodwinds and the double basses.”

- Paul Murphy, Associate Principal Violist