Ted Mann Concert Hall
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Seat Count: 1250
Project Type: New Construction
Client: University of Minnesota
Architect: HGA, Minneapolis, MN
AD Scope: Acoustics, Loudspeaker Design
Although Ted Mann Hall at the University of Minnesota was designed as a theatre with a full stage house to accommodate grand opera as well as touring productions, concert hall acoustics were given top billing. Acoustical flexibility and quality were established as the highest priorities for the new building.
Many adjustable elements were designed to allow the transformation from a theatre to a concert hall. Moveable elements allow the proscenium opening to be opened up to 60 ft wide by 38 ft high, and two lifts downstage of the proscenium help create an extended forestage, which allows the majority of the orchestra to play downstage of the proscenium in the same acoustical volume as the audience. Portable concert towers and concert ceiling panels provide beneficial reflections to the musicians in a large orchestra setting. These towers form an enclosure around the back of the orchestra, which can be easily adjusted to accommodate a large range of performance group sizes.
Within the audience chamber, the retractable sound absorbing curtains can be extended to reduce the level of reverberation. In addition to creating flexibility in the acoustics for artistic expression, the curtains are also used to compensate for the effect of an audience, which is helpful for rehearsals.
Another critical acoustical feature is the reverberation chamber. Concert ceiling units are flown out for theatrical use or can be turned to horizontal to close off the upper volume of the stage house for concerts. The lower volume of the stage house then becomes a large reverberant volume to provide further flexibility for a wide range of musical styles.
Ted Mann Hall has quickly become the favorite venue for musical groups on campus, and is thoroughly enjoyed by the nearby St. Paul Chamber Orchestra as well. Visiting artists, too, such as Jaime Laredo and Yefim Bronfman, have offered enthusiastic praise of the hall's acoustics.
