The Architecture of Sound

China experienced a real boom in the construction of concert halls and opera houses over the last 15 years. Some were designed by renowned architects, such as the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing designed by French architect Paul Andreu.

However, while the authorities are willing to invest millions in such monumental projects, other important issues such as acoustics and economic viability of the halls are often overlooked. Concert halls are first considered as city status symbols – and not as arts centers.

Still, an evolution on the perception of the role of concert halls is occurring. The Shanghai Symphony Concert Hall, built in 2013 and designed by Arata Isozaki, “is the first hall in China where the acoustics were [addressed] before the architectural design” (Chen Guangxian).