Basics for year 9–13 music facilities
Music specialists suggest the following requirements for basic secondary school facilities.
Minimum of one large room dedicated to music teaching, which could also double as a small performance space. (It is suggested that this room be at least 50% larger than a standard classroom.)
The room will feature:
- spaces that can be changed quickly for different activities (maybe with tables rather than desks)
- space for a piano and/or electronic keyboard for the teacher
- provision for excellent sound playback equipment and other audiovisual equipment.
Provision in the room or nearby for:
- recording and mixing equipment
- computers for research, writing, and composition
- listening posts.
The music room should be close to:
- smaller breakout/practice rooms
- a music library (with scores, recordings, and reference books).
All music facilities need small rooms for group and individual tuition, practice, and rehearsal. These should include:
- soundproofing (see simple suggestions in 'Soundproofing' page)
- access to hand basins
- natural light
- ventilation
- mirrors.
You will need 'wet' areas, especially to cater for brass and wind instruments, and to provide drinking water.
The shape and details of music rooms are important for acoustics, especially in spaces used for rehearsal, performance, or recording. Suggestions include:
- proportions of the room should be close to the 'golden section' or 'golden rectangle' (the proportions used in Classical Greek architecture)
- avoid long narrow spaces (so two classrooms on end are not good)
- by designing opposing walls to be non-parallel, you will avoid a 'slap' effect
- curtains, carpet, and wooden furniture all minimise reverberation
- slats on the back wall and maybe the ceiling can add some 'live' qualities.