Acentech worked with the end-users and the architect, Symmes Maini & McKee Associates, to develop and integrate acoustical requirements and a variety of audiovisual systems to support a full array of performing arts spaces, including a 850-seat auditorium, a TV production studio, and band, chorus, and instrumental practice rooms, in the new Swampscott High School.

As with most high schools, the auditorium must accommodate a range of both musical and spoken word activities. Accordingly, Acentech’s acoustical design struck an appropriate balance between the acoustical liveness that is essential for good music performance (achieved by sufficient room volume and suitable finish selection), along with adequate reverberation control to assure the clarity needed for speech intelligibility. Good listening and recording conditions in the auditorium and TV studio depended on very quiet background noise levels, which we achieved through proper acoustical engineering of the HVAC systems. Additionally, we consulted to create effective levels of sound isolation to prevent exterior noise from entering critical listening spaces, such as classrooms and the auditorium.

Acentech designed a sound reinforcement and audiovisual presentation system in the auditorium for use with presentations, theater, and musical events. We also designed video projection and sound reinforcement systems for two large group instruction spaces and sound reinforcement systems in the gymnasium.

"I had occasion for the first time to hear music in the Swampscott High School auditorium yesterday. The North Shore Philharmonic performed. The acoustics were phenomenal. Every instrument was clearly heard. Must be those clouds. Also, gratifying to know all that planning and your diligent effort paid off."

-- Joe Markarian, Chairman, Swampscott School Building Authority.