Russ Cooper, Principal of Acoustics, recently made a presentation to the Audio Engineering Society of Latin America (AES LAC) to discuss Jaffe Holden’s acoustic design in La Sala Nezahualcóyotl, often considered one of Latin America’s best concert halls. Russ was honored to participate in this virtual conference and mark the 45th anniversary of this hall’s opening.

Located within the Centro Cultural Universitario in southern Mexico City, Sala Nezahualcóyotl was completed in 1976. It is the headquarters for UNAM’s Orquesta Filarmónica and has capacity for 2,376 spectators.

Its striking architectural design sets it apart from many other modern concert halls. It is the first of its kind in the western hemisphere to have a surround format. The hall was shaped and built to ensure that it would have a very resonant acoustic. Jaffe Holden designed an extensive acoustical canopy over the stage to ensure that this resonance is balanced by clarity and transparency. A multitude of balcony fascias help diffuse and blend the sound. Our firm also designed an acoustical chamber, or moat, beneath the stage in order to enhance low frequency warmth. The acoustics of this hall are rich, clear, well defined, and warm. These well-balanced acoustics are characteristic of the very best halls, new or old.

The Audio Engineering Society is the only professional society devoted exclusively to audio technology. Founded in the USA in 1948, the AES is now an international organization that unites audio engineers, creative artists, scientists and students worldwide by promoting advances in audio and disseminating new knowledge and research.