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Wenger platforms: paneling versus drapery?Date: January 10, 2013 by Kathleen McGuire  Views: 1098
Dear colleagues,
We are undergoing a major sanctuary renovation, including the purchase of new Wenger platforms for the (seated) choir. For the verticals (ie fronts and sides) we need to decide whether to use a hard surface (paneling) or soft (drapery). I've experienced drapery at other venues in the past but I've never used the panels. Other than the obvious acoustic differences, what advantages or pitfalls are there in using one or the other? For instance, we would be using a lighter natural wood or tan color, so I am curious to know if the panels are easily scuffed by chairs, shoes, or frequent use generally. Is one easier to clean? Do the drapes gather dust easily? Thank you,
Dr. Kathleen McGuire
Replies (4): Threaded | Chronological
Craig Scott Symons on January 10, 2013 12:33pm
We've got Wenger platforms in our sanctuary and have the wooden fronts on the areas that go between the different heights. As far as I can see, there's no scuff marks or other things that have marred the surface.
I don't know your seating area specifics, but years ago, when the church purchased the risers, the assistant organist had the brilliant idea of ordering custom-made metal legs for 4 segments of the platforms/risers. Our choir seating is up one step from the main level of the chancel. With those custom legs and the extra platforms, this makes an extention of the choir area and the organ is able to be rolled out in the center of the chancel for recitals. If you look at the 4th picture on our website, you can see where the choir sits, and the orchestra is on the chancel level and where the organ can be moved from its corner position out into the orchestra area.
http://www.fccog.org
My previous church had a few Wenger platforms for other staging purposes and have loved it. I'm very pleased with the flexibility of the system (but not the weight! LOL) and I know that it's very solid and secure.
Cheers!
Craig
Applauded by an audience of 1
on January 11, 2013 10:05am
Hi!
First, go to RPG's website and benefit from Peter D'Anonio's wisdom on diffused performance environmets.
Second, think about what it's like to sing hymns out in the overstuffed, overupholstered pew area where your listeners sit.
Third give thought to how much harder you're asking your singers to work at hearing them selves and each other.
Whether it's Wenger, or some other provision, PLEASE give the singers and yourself the benefit of the most live (and even better, diffused) environment you can muster!
Thank You!
Gene Lysinger
on January 12, 2013 10:08am
My apologies for mispelling Peter's name! D'Antonio is closer.
The overstuffed comment reflects most of what I see in one of my other pursuits: consulting on Acoustics.
Best of luck...
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