Sound strength G prediction in orchestra pit based on Barron and Lee “revised theory”

Musicians in the orchestra pit often report problems with too high sound levels during performances. At the same time, numerous surveys indicate frequent problems with the mutual hearing of musicians with each other, as well as themselves or a singer from the stage. The structure of the orchestra pit causes the musicians to be exposed to strong reflections with low delay, which increases the overall sound pressure level. In the literature, one can find recommendations that the space of the orchestra pit should be treated with sound absorbing materials in a wide range and with sound-scattering materials without indicating their quantity or localization. This paper focuses on the development of tools for assessing and predicting the value of energetic parameters such as sound strength G or clarity C80 in the orchestra pit based on its acoustic absorption and the volume of the hall. The sound propagation model in concert halls proposed by Barron and Lee was adapted for this purpose. The sound strength G can be used to predict the acoustic conditions in the orchestra pit, such as the sound pressure level, the mutual audibility of the musicians, and how the room supports playing musicians. The analysis covers several existing halls of different geometry and size, as well as the design of the barrier of the orchestra pit with the proposed modifications