25 Nov 2011
Arup has added another string to its acoustic design bow in the form of the Kilden Concert Hall.
The new theatre and concert hall was purposely built for the Kristiansand Symphony Orchestra. The performing arts centre also includes a 700 seat theatre, multipurpose hall and studio spaces.
The design of the hall itself was carried out by Finnish practice ALA. Arup, with the assistance of Brekke Strand, led the acoustic design of the main 1200 capacity concert hall.
The inside of the hall itself is a very traditional ‘shoebox’ format, encompassing stalls and two balconies that wrap around the orchestral platform. Extensive sound absorbing banners have been put in place in order to easily adjust the acoustic levels in the hall, which makes the venue easily adaptable to more amplified music events and not just suited to the classical musical repertoire.
Helen Butcher, Associate Director, Arup Acoustics says: “The acoustic design plays an important, if not the most important, role in this building. We have ensured throughout this project that the final tonal quality of the orchestral sound is beautifully blended to show the exceptional dynamic range of the orchestra”.
“One of the most important endorsements of a concert hall is the experience for the musicians who perform there. I have been with the orchestra for 35 years and this has been the best reaction I’ve heard about a venue. Acoustics are critically important for musicians of this calibre and we have found it a pleasure to rehearse and perform in this wonderful space”.
- Bjørn Danielsen, manager of the Kristiansand Symphony Orchestra
The Kilden Concert Hall opens to the public on 6th January 2012, with a full programme of events by the Kristiansand Symphony Orchestra.
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