Question

In a wide concert hall with high ceilings, the center of the orchestra section often has good sight lines but poor acoustics. In fact, if you don't mind using binoculars, you may get better sound in the back balcony. Why is this so and how can it be fixed?

Answer

The center-front location of such halls often does not benefit from early sound reflections off walls and ceiling, which is usually not a problem in the back of the hall. This lack of reflection can cause poor sound articulation. Reflecting canopies or arrays over the front seats can often improve sound quality in these areas.