Variable acoustics at hauppauge high school

The author will discuss how variable acoustic solutions were used to solve room anomalies and provide a means to control room size. Once plagued by a significant rear wall reflection that interfered with stage musicians' timing, due to its later arrival time, the author will explain how a unique custom designed retractable acoustical diffuser reduced this problem. Another recurring issue in the space was the need to reduce the size of the seating area, normally 1100 seats, to one which provided a more intimate setting for dramatic presentations, which were normally not attended by large audiences. Using a commercially available acoustical product, the issue was solved and a means provided to alter the room's acoustical environment. This paper presents details about the methods used to provide variation to the room's acoustics and cites specific measurements of the space with and without the variable acoustical elements.