Numerical simulations of Italian opera houses using geometrical and wave-based acoustics methods

The acoustics of opera houses represents an interesting topic in scientific literature due to their architectural and morphological characteristic traits (shape, materials, coupled volumes). A way to exploit the outstanding value of Italian theatres acoustics is to perform different typologies of music while adding or removing acoustically significant elements on the stage. Numerical simulations may be used as useful tools for designing distinct layouts and for optimising such performances. The present study investigates strengths and weaknesses of two different room acoustics modelling approaches: geometrical acoustics (GA) and wave-based methods. The commercial GA software ODEON and a hybrid ray-tracing and finite-difference time- domain (FDTD) approach are applied in this work. Measurements carried out in a sample of Italian Opera houses provide reference data for 3D virtual models calibration. Preliminary comparisons between room acoustical simulation methods are shown and discussed.