Taking advantage of an upgrade to its auditorium, the Singapore American School (SAS) has installed a Meyer Sound Constellation acoustic system. The move both solves an acoustic issue that has prevented performers from hearing each other clearly and gives students the opportunity to learn about active acoustics. Additionally, it provides a flexible sound environment for community productions.
The system is built around a D-Mitri digital audio platform running VRAS acoustical algorithms. Room ambience is captured by 38 microphones, and an enhanced acoustical response is delivered by 200 speakers over the stage and audience.
Supplied by the Singapore-based Coda Group, the loudspeaker installation includes Meyer Sound MM-4XP self-powered, UP-4XP, and UPM-1P loudspeakers, UPJunior and UPJ-1XP VariO loudspeakers, Stella-4 installation loudspeakers, and UMS-1P and UMS-1XP subwoofers. A previously installed Meyer Sound M1D line array loudspeaker system with M1D-Sub subwoofers is used for direct reinforcement when needed, with fill provided by MM-4 and UPM-1P loudspeakers.
SAS students who study stage lighting, sound, video, and stage technical systems will now learn to apply calibrated sound settings to different types of performances, and study the principles behind processor sound sampling and optimising reverberation. They will also be able to develop ideas for live sound performances such as drama, musical theatre, speech, jazz, symphonic band, chamber orchestra and choir.
‘As much as you can operate lighting to get someone’s attention on something, you can also change the focus of what they’re hearing,’ saya Assistant Theatre Manager and teacher, Paul Koebnick. ‘Students responsible for sound operations can change the sound settings in the middle of a show, when a different group comes on with a different song.’
Constellation has already made its mark with SAS students: ‘Before, the auditorium was really difficult to project sound in,’ says SAS high school senior and mixed choir member, Tia Abdi. ‘You could often only hear yourself sing, and it was hard to hear any other parts. Now I can hear the people around me a lot more easily, and the audience can definitely hear whether our sound is flat or ringing.’
‘As a school, we have a bold vision to be a world leader in education, cultivating exceptional thinkers, prepared for the future,’ says SAS Superintendent, Dr Chip Kimball. ‘Constellation allows us to be that world leader; it truly is the epitome of excellence. Our students and our staff are tremendous performers and talented individuals, and they work very hard to perfect their craft. The acoustic system shines light on their art. This auditorium is a special place; these kids are going to do amazing things in their lives.’
Constellation is a part of an extensive renovation to the 19-year-old auditorium that includes new seats, energy-efficient lighting, new carpeting, sound-absorbing and reflecting walls, and improved soundproof double doors.
More: http://codaproaudio.com
More: www.meyersound.com
